Apparatus and method for identifying operational status of umbrella, parasol or shading system utilizing lighting elements

ABSTRACT

An umbrella includes a first lighting element, a second lighting element, a first electrical component associated with the first lighting element, a second electrical component associated with the second lighting element, and a computing device. The computing device includes one or more processors, one or more physical memory devices and computer-readable instructions being executable by the one or more processors to 1) receive first status message or signals from the first electrical component; 2) receive second status message or signals from the second electrical component; 3) generate first light element commands based, at least in part, on the received first status messages and communicate the generated first light element commands to the first light element; and 4) generate second light element commands based, at least in part, on the received second status messages and communicate the generated second light element commands to the second light element.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No.62/614,403, filed Jan. 6, 2018, entitled “Umbrella Parasol or ShadingSystem Mechanical Improvements and Artificial Intelligence Methods,” thedisclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

Parasols, umbrellas and shading systems have limited functionality.Outdoor connectivity is important.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C illustrate a modular umbrella shading systemaccording to embodiments;

FIGS. 2A, 2B and 2C illustrate a cut-away drawing of mechanicalassemblies in a modular umbrella system according to embodiments;

FIG. 3 illustrates a block diagram power subsystem of a parasol,umbrella or shading system according to embodiments;

FIG. 4A illustrates a base assembly including a base stand, a base lowerhousing and base housing according to embodiments;

FIG. 4B illustrates a rechargeable power source housing according toembodiments;

FIG. 4C illustrates a torque limiter and auger in a base assemblyaccording to embodiments.

FIG. 5A illustrates a block diagram of an intelligence housing accordingto embodiments;

FIG. 5B illustrates a perspective view of an intelligence housing withone side removed according to embodiments;

FIG. 5C illustrates a perspective view of an intelligence housing withcovers attached according to embodiments;

FIG. 5D illustrates a wind sensor assembly according to embodiments;

FIG. 6A (magnetic coolers) illustrates a parasol, umbrella or shadingsystem with a magnetic attachment connector or a POGO connectoraccording to embodiments;

FIG. 6B illustrates an umbrella, parasol or shading system with awireless charging assembly according to embodiments

FIG. 7 illustrates an umbrella, parasol or shading system having morethan one sections with magnetic sensing and detachment sensing accordingto embodiments;

FIG. 8A illustrates a cross-section of a core assembly or supportassembly of an umbrella, parasol or shading system including an interiorfan assembly according to embodiments;

FIG. 8B illustrates a cross-section of a core assembly or supportassembly of an umbrella, parasol or shading system according toembodiments;

FIG. 9A illustrates a protective housing or shielding for one or morearm support assemblies and/or linking assemblies according toembodiments;

FIG. 9B illustrates a linkage protective housing with a top housingremove according to embodiments;

FIG. 10A illustrates an umbrella, parasol or shading system withmultiple arms or blades and/or one or more shading fabrics according toembodiments;

FIG. 10B illustrates a side cross-section view of one of the arms orblades according to embodiments

FIG. 11A illustrates a power button with a lighting element encirclingthe power button according to embodiments;

FIG. 11B illustrates a lighting element in a core assembly or support,where the lighting element goes around or encircles a core assembly orcentral support according to embodiments;

FIG. 11C illustrates a plurality of lighting elements for an umbrella,parasol or shading system according to embodiments;

FIG. 11D illustrates one or more arms/blades comprising one or morelighting elements or assemblies according to embodiments;

FIG. 11E illustrates a flowchart of initiating operation of one or morelighting assemblies in an umbrella, parasol or shading system accordingto embodiments;

FIG. 12 illustrates a block diagram of an umbrella, parasol or shadingsystem playing coordinated music and lighting element according toembodiments;

FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrates a block diagram of a modular umbrellasystem according to embodiments; and

FIG. 14 illustrates a shading object or umbrella integrated computingdevice in a modular umbrella system according to embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are setforth to provide a thorough understanding of claimed subject matter. Forpurposes of explanation, specific numbers, systems and/or configurationsare set forth, for example. However, it should be apparent to oneskilled in the relevant art having benefit of this disclosure thatclaimed subject matter may be practiced without specific details. Inother instances, well-known features may be omitted and/or simplified soas not to obscure claimed subject matter. While certain features havebeen illustrated and/or described herein, many modifications,substitutions, changes and/or equivalents may occur to those skilled inthe art. It is, therefore, to be understood that appended claims areintended to cover any and all modifications and/or changes as fallwithin claimed subject matter.

References throughout this specification to one implementation, animplementation, one embodiment, embodiments, an embodiment and/or thelike means that a particular feature, structure, and/or characteristicdescribed in connection with a particular implementation and/orembodiment is included in at least one implementation and/or embodimentof claimed subject matter. Thus, appearances of such phrases, forexample, in various places throughout this specification are notnecessarily intended to refer to the same implementation or to any oneparticular implementation described. Furthermore, it is to be understoodthat particular features, structures, and/or characteristics describedare capable of being combined in various ways in one or moreimplementations and, therefore, are within intended claim scope, forexample. In general, of course, these and other issues vary withcontext. Therefore, particular context of description and/or usageprovides helpful guidance regarding inferences to be drawn.

Likewise, in this context, the terms “coupled”, “connected,” and/orsimilar terms are used generically. It should be understood that theseterms are not intended as synonyms. Rather, “connected” is usedgenerically to indicate that two or more components, for example, are indirect physical, including electrical, contact; while, “coupled” is usedgenerically to mean that two or more components are potentially indirect physical, including electrical, contact; however, “coupled” isalso used generically to also mean that two or more components are notnecessarily in direct contact, but nonetheless are able to co-operateand/or interact. The term “coupled” is also understood generically tomean indirectly connected, for example, in an appropriate context. In acontext of this application, if signals, instructions, and/or commandsare transmitted from one component (e.g., a controller or processor) toanother component (or assembly), it is understood that messages,signals, instructions, and/or commands may be transmitted directly to acomponent, or may pass through a number of other components on a way toa destination component. For example, a signal transmitted from a motorcontroller or processor to a motor (or other driving assembly) may passthrough glue logic, an amplifier, an analog-to-digital converter, adigital-to-analog converter, another controller and/or processor, and/oran interface. Similarly, a signal communicated through a misting systemmay pass through an air conditioning and/or a heating module, and asignal communicated from any one or a number of sensors to a controllerand/or processor may pass through a conditioning module, ananalog-to-digital controller, and/or a comparison module, and/or anumber of other electrical assemblies and/or components.

The terms, “and”, “or”, “and/or” and/or similar terms, as used herein,include a variety of meanings that also are expected to depend at leastin part upon the particular context in which such terms are used.Typically, “or” if used to associate a list, such as A, B or C, isintended to mean A, B, and C, here used in the inclusive sense, as wellas A, B or C, here used in the exclusive sense. In addition, the term“one or more” and/or similar terms is used to describe any feature,structure, and/or characteristic in the singular and/or is also used todescribe a plurality and/or some other combination of features,structures and/or characteristics.

Likewise, the term “based on,” “based, at least in part on,” and/orsimilar terms (e.g., based at least in part on) are understood as notnecessarily intending to convey an exclusive set of factors, but toallow for existence of additional factors not necessarily expresslydescribed. Of course, for all of the foregoing, particular context ofdescription and/or usage provides helpful guidance regarding inferencesto be drawn. It should be noted that the following description merelyprovides one or more illustrative examples and claimed subject matter isnot limited to these one or more illustrative examples; however, again,particular context of description and/or usage provides helpful guidanceregarding inferences to be drawn.

Also as used herein, one or more parameters may be descriptive of acollection of signal samples, such as one or more electronic documents,and exist in the form of physical signals and/or physical states, suchas memory states. For example, one or more parameters may includeparameters, such as 1) how much an assembly (e.g., motor assembly) maymove or be requested to move; 2) a time of day at which an image wascaptured, a latitude and longitude of an image capture device, such as acamera; 3) time and day of when a sensor reading (e.g., humidity,temperature, air quality, UV radiation) may be received and/ormeasurements or values of sensor readings; and/or 4) operatingconditions of one or more motors or other components or assemblies in abalcony shading and power system. Claimed subject matter is intended toembrace meaningful, descriptive parameters in any format, so long as theone or more parameters comprise physical signals and/or states.

Some portions of the detailed description which follow are presented interms of algorithms or symbolic representations of operations on binarydigital signals stored within a memory of a specific apparatus orspecial purpose computing device or platform. In the context of thisparticular specification, the term specific apparatus or the likeincludes a general purpose computer once it is programmed to performparticular functions pursuant to instructions from program software. Inembodiments, a modular umbrella shading system may comprise a computingdevice installed within or as part of a modular umbrella system,intelligent umbrella and/or intelligent shading charging system.Algorithmic descriptions or symbolic representations are examples oftechniques used by those of ordinary skill in the signal processing orrelated arts to convey the substance of their work to others skilled inthe art. An algorithm is here, and generally, considered to be aself-consistent sequence of operations or similar signal processingleading to a desired result. In this context, operations or processinginvolve physical manipulation of physical quantities. Typically,although not necessarily, such quantities may take the form ofelectrical or magnetic signals capable of being stored, transferred,combined, compared or otherwise manipulated.

It has proven convenient at times, principally for reasons of commonusage, to refer to such signals as bits, data, values, elements,symbols, numbers, numerals or the like, and that these are conventionallabels. Unless specifically stated otherwise, it is appreciated thatthroughout this specification discussions utilizing terms such as“processing,” “computing,” “calculating,” “determining” or the like mayrefer to actions or processes of a specific apparatus, such as a specialpurpose computer or a similar special purpose electronic computingdevice (e.g., such as a balcony shading and power system processor,controller and/or computing device). In the context of thisspecification, therefore, a special purpose computer or a similarspecial purpose electronic computing device (e.g., a balcony shading andpower system processor, controller and/or computing device) is capableof manipulating or transforming signals (electronic and/or magnetic) inmemories (or components thereof), other storage devices, transmissiondevices sound reproduction devices, and/or display devices.

In an embodiment, a controller and/or a processor typically performs aseries of instructions resulting in data manipulation. In an embodiment,a microcontroller or microprocessor may be a compact microcomputerdesigned to govern the operation of embedded systems in electronicdevices, e.g., a balcony shading and power system processor, controllerand/or computing device or single board computers, and various otherelectronic and mechanical devices coupled thereto or installed thereon.Microcontrollers may include processors, microprocessors, and otherelectronic components. Controller may be a commercially availableprocessor such as an Intel Pentium, Raspberry Pi, other Linux-basedcomputers, Motorola PowerPC, SGI MIPS, Sun UltraSPARC, orHewlett-Packard PA-RISC processor, but may be any type ofapplication-specific and/or specifically designed processor orcontroller. In an embodiment, a processor and/or controller may beconnected to other system elements, including one or more memorydevices, by a bus, a mesh network or other mesh components. Inembodiments, a processor and/or controller may be connected to otherdevices also via power buses from either a rechargeable power sourceand/or a solar charging assembly. Usually, a processor or controller,may execute an operating system which may be, for example, aWindows-based operating system (Microsoft), a MAC OS System X operatingsystem (Apple Computer), one of many Linux-based operating systemdistributions, a portable electronic device operating system (e.g.,mobile phone operating systems), microcomputer operating systems, and/ora UNIX operating systems. Embodiments are not limited to any particularimplementation and/or operating system.

The specification may refer to an umbrella, a robotic shading system, ora parasol. In embodiments, each of these devices may be intelligentand/or automated. In embodiments, an umbrella, robotic shading system ora parasol may provide shade and/or coverage to a user from weatherelements such as sun, wind, rain, and/or hail in an outdoor environmentor outdoor portions of a structure (whether building, office and/orsports complexes). In embodiments, an umbrella, a robotic shading systemor a parasol may be an automated, intelligent and/or employ artificialintelligence and/or machine learning. The device and/or apparatus mayalso be referred to as a sun shade, outdoor shade furniture, sun screen,sun shelter, awning, sun cover, sun marquee, brolly and other similarnames, which may all be utilized interchangeably in this application

FIG. 1A, 1B or 1C illustrates a modular umbrella or shading systemaccording to embodiments. In embodiments, a modular umbrella system 100comprises a base assembly or module 110, a first extension assembly ormodule 120, a core assembly module housing (or core umbrella assembly)130, a second extension assembly or module 150, and an expansion sensorassembly or module (or an arm extension assembly or module) 160. Inembodiments, a modular umbrella shading system 100 may not comprise abase assembly or module 110 and may comprise a table assembly or module180 to connect to table tops, such as patio tables and/or other outdoorfurniture. In embodiments, a table assembly or module 180 may comprise atable attachment and/or a table receptacle. In embodiments, a basemodule or assembly 110 may comprise a circular base component 112, asquare or rectangular base component 113, a rounded edges base component114, and/or a beach or sand base component 115. In embodiments, basecomponents 112, 113, 114, and/or 115 may be interchangeable based upon aconfiguration required by an umbrella system and/or user. Inembodiments, each of the different options for the base components 112,113, 114, 115, and/or 180 may have a universal connector and/orreceptacle to allow for easy interchangeability.

In embodiments, a first extension assembly or module 120 may comprise ashaft assembly having a first end 121 and a second end 122. Inembodiments, a first end 121 may be detachably connectable and/orconnected to a base assembly or module 110. In embodiments, a second end122 may be detachably connected and/or connectable to a first end of acore umbrella assembly or module 130. In embodiments, a first end 121and a second end 122 may have a universal umbrella connector. In otherwords, a connector may be universal within all modules and/or assembliesof a modular umbrella system to provide a benefit of allowing backwardscapabilities with new versions of different modules and/or assemblies ofa modular umbrella shading system. In embodiments, a first extensionassembly or module 120 may have different lengths. In embodiments,different length first extension assemblies may allow a modular umbrellashading system to have different clearance heights between a baseassembly or module 110 and/or a core umbrella assembly or module 130. Inembodiments, a first extension assembly or module 110 may be a tubeand/or a shell with channels, grooves and/or pathways for electricalwires and/or components and/or mechanical components. In embodiments, afirst extension assembly 110 may be a shaft assembly having an innercore comprising channels, grooves and/or pathways for electrical wires,connectors and/or components and/or mechanical components.

In embodiments, a universal umbrella connector or connection assembly124 may refer to a connection pair and/or connection assembly that maybe uniform for all modules, components and/or assemblies of a modularumbrella system 100. In embodiments, having a universal umbrellaconnector or connection assembly 124 may allow interchangeability and/orbackward compatibility of the various assemblies and/or modules of themodular umbrella system 100. In embodiments, for example, a diameter ofall or most of universal connectors 124 utilized in a modular umbrellasystem may be the same. In embodiments, a universal connector orconnection assembly 124 may be a twist-on connector. In embodiments, auniversal connector 124 may be a drop in connector and/or a lockingconnector, having a male and female connector. In embodiments, auniversal connector or connection assembly 124 may be a plug withanother connector being a receptacle. In embodiments, universalconnector 124 may be an interlocking plug receptacle combination. Forexample, universal connector 124 may be a plug and receptacle, jack andplug, flanges for connection, threaded plugs and threaded receptacles,snap fit connectors, adhesive or friction connectors. In embodiments,for example, universal connector or connection assembly 124 may beexternal connectors engaged with threaded internal connections, snap-fitconnectors, push fit couplers. In embodiments, by having a universalconnector or connection assembly 124 for joints or connections between abase module or assembly 110 and a first extension module or assembly120, a first extension module or assembly 120 and a core assembly moduleor assembly 130, a core assembly module or assembly 130 and a secondextension module or assembly 150, and/or a second extension module orassembly 150 and an expansion sensor module or assembly 160, an umbrellaor shading object manufacturer may not need to provide additional partsfor additional connectors for attaching, coupling or connectingdifferent modules or assemblies of a modular umbrella shading system. Inaddition, modules and/or assemblies may be upgraded easily because onemodule and/or assembly may be switched out of a modular umbrella systemwithout having to purchase or procure additional modules because of theinteroperability and/or interchangeability.

In embodiments, a core umbrella assembly or module 130 may be positionedbetween a first extension assembly or module 120 and a second extensionassembly or module 150. In embodiments, core umbrella assembly or module130 may be positioned between a base assembly or module 110 and/or anexpansion and sensor module or assembly 160. In embodiments, a coreumbrella assembly or module 130 may comprise an upper core assembly 140,a core assembly connector or mid-section 141 and/or a lower coreassembly 142. In embodiments, a core assembly connector 141 may be asealer or sealed connection to protect a modular umbrella system fromenvironmental conditions. In embodiments, a core umbrella assembly ormodule 130 may comprise two or more motors or motor assemblies. Althoughthe specification may refer to a motor, a motor may be a motor assemblywith a motor controller, a motor, a stator, a rotor and/or adrive/output shaft. In embodiments, a core umbrella assembly 130 maycomprise an azimuth rotation motor 131, an elevation motor 132, and/or aspoke expansion/retraction motor 133. In embodiments, an azimuthrotation motor 131 may cause a core umbrella assembly 130 to rotateclockwise or counterclockwise about a base assembly or module 110 or atable connection assembly 180. In embodiments, an azimuth rotation motor131 may cause a core umbrella assembly 130 to rotate about an azimuthaxis. In embodiments, a core umbrella assembly or module 130 may rotateup to 360 degrees with respect to a base assembly or module 130.

In embodiments, an elevation motor 132 may cause an upper core assembly140 to rotate with respect to a lower core assembly 142. In embodiments,an elevation motor 130 may rotate an upper core assembly 140 between 0to 90 degrees with respect to the lower core assembly 142. Inembodiments, an elevation motor 130 may rotate an upper module orassembly 140 between 0 to 30 degrees with respect to a lower assembly ormodule 142. In embodiments, an original position may be where an uppercore assembly 140 is positioned in line and above the lower coreassembly 142, as is illustrated in FIG. 1B.

In embodiments, a spoke expansion motor 133 may be connected to anexpansion and sensor assembly module 160 via a second extension assemblyor module 150 and cause spoke or arm support assemblies in a spokeexpansion sensor assembly module 160 to deploy or retract outward and/orupward from an expansion sensor assembly module 160. In embodiments, anexpansion extension assembly module 160 may comprise a rack gear andspoke connector assemblies (or arms). In embodiments, a spoke expansionmotor 133 may be coupled and/or connected to a hollow tube via a gearingassembly, and may cause a hollow tube to move up or down (e.g., in avertical direction). In embodiments, a hollow tube may be connectedand/or coupled to a rack gear, which may be connected and/or coupled tospoke connector assemblies. In embodiments, movement of a hollow tube ina vertical direction may cause spoke assemblies and/or arms to bedeployed and/or retracted. In embodiments, spoke connector assembliesand/or arms may have a corresponding and/or associated gear at avertical rack gear.

In embodiments, a core assembly or module 130 may comprise motor controlcircuitry 134 (e.g., a motion control board 134) that controls operationof an azimuth motor 131, an elevation motor 132 and/or an expansionmotor 133, along with other components and/or assemblies. Inembodiments, the core assembly module 130 may comprise one or morebatteries 135 (e.g., rechargeable batteries) for providing power toelectrical and mechanical components in the modular umbrella system 100.For example, one or more batteries 135 may provide power to motioncontrol circuitry 134, an azimuth motor 131, an expansion motor 133, anelevation motor 132, a camera 137, a proximity sensor 138, a near fieldcommunication (NFC) sensor 138. In embodiments, one or more batteries135 may provide power to an integrated computing device 136, although inother embodiments, an integrated computing device 136 may also compriseits own battery (e.g., rechargeable battery).

In embodiments, the core assembly 130 may comprise a separate and/orintegrated computing device 136. In embodiments, a separate computingdevice 136 may comprise a Raspberry Pi computing device, othersingle-board computers and/or single-board computing device. Because amodular umbrella shading system has a limited amount of space, asingle-board computing device is a solution that allows for increasedfunctionality without taking up too much space in an interior of amodular umbrella shading system. In embodiments, a separate computingdevice 136 may handle video, audio and/or image editing, processing,and/or storage for a modular umbrella shading system 100 (which are moredata intensive functions and thus require more processing bandwidthand/or power). In embodiments, an upper core assembly 140 may compriseone or more rechargeable batteries 135, a motion control board (ormotion control circuitry) 134, a spoke expansion motor 133 and/or aseparate and/or integrated computing device 136.

In embodiments, a core assembly connector/cover 141 may cover and/orsecure a connector between an upper core assembly 140 and a lower coreassembly 142. In embodiments, a core assembly connector and/or cover 141may provide protection from water and/or other environmental conditions.In other words, a core assembly connector and/or cover 141 may make acore assembly 130 waterproof and/or water resistant and in otherenvironments, may protect an interior of a core assembly from sunlight,cold or hot temperatures, humidity and/or smoke. In embodiments, a coreassembly connector/cover 141 may be comprised of a rubber material,although a plastic and/or fiberglass material may be utilized. Inembodiments, a core assembly connector/cover 141 may be comprised of aflexible material, silicone, and/or a membrane In embodiments, a coreassembly connector/cover 141 may be circular and/or oval in shape andmay have an opening in a middle to allow assemblies and/or components topass freely through an interior of a core assembly connector or cover141. In embodiments, a core assembly connector/cover 141 may adhere toan outside surface of an upper core assembly 140 and a lower coreassembly 142. In embodiments, a core assembly connector/cover 141 may beconnected, coupled, fastened and/or have a grip or to an outside surfaceof the upper core assembly 140 and the lower core assembly 142. Inembodiments, a core assembly connector and/or cover 141 may beconnected, coupled, adhered and/or fastened to a surface (e.g., top orbottom surface) of an upper core assembly and/or lower core assembly142. In embodiments, a core assembly connector/cover 141 may cover ahinging assembly and/or reparation point, springs, and wires that arepresent between an upper core assembly 140 and/or a lower core assembly142.

In embodiments, a core assembly or module 130 may comprise one or morecameras 137. In embodiments, one or more cameras 137 may be captureimages, videos and/or sound of an area and/or environment surrounding amodular umbrella system 100. In embodiments, a lower core assembly 142may comprise one or more cameras 137. In embodiments, a camera 137 mayonly capture sound if a user selects a sound capture mode on a modularumbrella system 100 (e.g., via a button and/or switch) or via a softwareapplication controlling operation of a modular umbrella system (e.g., amicrophone or recording icon is selected in a modular umbrella systemsoftware application).

In embodiments, a core assembly 130 may comprise a power button tomanually turn on or off power to components of a modular umbrellasystem. In embodiments, a core assembly or module 130 may comprise oneor more proximity sensors 138. In embodiments, one or more proximitysensors 138 may detect whether or not an individual and/or subject maybe within a known distance from a modular umbrella system 100. Inembodiments, in response to a detection of proximity of an individualand/or subject, a proximity sensor 138 may communicate a signal,instruction, message and/or command to motion control circuitry (e.g., amotion control PCB 134) and/or a computing device 136 to activate and/ordeactivate assemblies and components of a modular umbrella system 100.In embodiments, a lower core assembly 142 may comprise a proximitysensor 138 and a power button. For example, a proximity sensor 138 maydetect whether an object is within proximity of a modular umbrellasystem and may communicate a message to a motion control PCB 134 toinstruct an azimuth motor 131 to stop rotating a base assembly ormodule.

In embodiments, a core assembly or module 130 may comprise a near-fieldcommunication (NFC) sensor 139. In embodiments, a NFC sensor 139 may beutilized to identify authorized users of a modular umbrella shadingsystem 100. In embodiments, for example, a user may have a mobilecomputing device with a NFC sensor which may communicate, pair and/orauthenticate in combination with a modular umbrella system NFC sensor139 to provide user identification information. In embodiments, a NFCsensor 139 may communicate and/or transmit a signal, message, commandand/or instruction based on a user's identification information tocomputer-readable instructions resident within a computing device and/orother memory of a modular umbrella system to verify a user isauthenticated and/or authorized to utilize a modular umbrella system100.

In embodiments, a core assembly or module 130 may comprise a coolingsystem and/or heat dissipation system 143. In embodiments, a coolingsystem 143 may be one or more channels in an interior of a core assemblyor module 130 that direct air flow from outside a modular umbrellasystem across components, motors, circuits and/or assembles inside acore assembly 130. For example, one or more channels and/or fins may becoupled and/or attached to components, motors and/or circuits, and airmay flow through channels to fins and/or components, motors and/orcircuits. In embodiments, a cooling system 143 may lower operatingtemperatures of components, motors, circuits and/or assemblies of amodular umbrella system 100. In embodiments, a cooling system 143 mayalso comprise one or more plates and/or fins attached to circuits,components and/or assemblies and also attached to channels to lowerinternal operating temperatures. In embodiments, a cooling system 143may also move hot air from electrical and/or mechanical assemblies tooutside a core assembly. In embodiments, a cooling system 143 may befins attached to or vents in a body of a core assembly 130. Inembodiments, fins and/or vents of a cooling system 143 may dissipateheat from electrical and mechanical components and/or assemblies of thecore module or assembly 130.

In embodiments, a separate, detachable and/or connectable skin may beattached, coupled, adhered and/or connected to a core module assembly130. In embodiments, a detachable and/or connectable skin may provideadditional protection for a core assembly module against water, smoke,wind and/or other environmental conditions and/or factors. Inembodiments, a skin may adhere to an outer surface of a core assembly130. In embodiments, a skin may have a connector on an inside surface ofthe skin and core assembly 130 may have a mating receptacle on anoutside surface. In embodiments, a skin may magnetically couple to acore assembly 130. In embodiments, a skin may be detachable andremovable from a core assembly so that a skin may be changed fordifferent environmental conditions and/or factors. In embodiments, askin may connect to an entire core assembly. In embodiments, a skin mayconnect to portions of an upper core assembly 140 and/or a lower coreassembly 142. In embodiments, a skin may not connect to a middle portionof a core assembly 130 (or a core assembly cover connector 141). Inembodiments, a skin may be made of a flexible material to allow forbending of a modular umbrella system 100. In embodiments, a baseassembly 110, a first extension assembly 120, a core module assembly130, a second extension assembly 140 and/or an arm extension and sensorassembly 160 may also comprise one or more skin assemblies. Inembodiments, a skin assembly may provide a cover for a majority of allof a surface area one or more of the base assembly, first extensionassembly 120, core module assembly 130, second extension assembly 150and/or arm extension sensor assembly 160. In embodiments, a coreassembly module 130 may further comprise channels on an outside surface.In embodiments, a skin assembly may comprise two pieces. In embodiments,a skin assembly may comprise edges and/or ledges. In embodiments, edgesand/or ledges of a skin assembly may be slid into channels of a coreassembly module 130. In embodiments, a base assembly 110, a firstextension assembly 120, a second extension assembly 140 and/or an armexpansion sensor assembly 160 may also comprise an outer skin assembly.In embodiments, skin assemblies for these assemblies may be uniform topresent a common industrial design. In embodiments, skin assemblies maybe different if such as a configuration is desired by a user. Inembodiments, skin assemblies may be comprise of a plastic, a hardplastic, fiberglass, aluminum, other light metals (including aluminum),and/or composite materials including metals, plastic, wood. Inembodiments, a core assembly module 130, a first extension assembly 120,a second extension assembly 150, an arm expansion sensor assembly 160,and/or a base assembly 110 may be comprised of aluminum, light metals,plastic, hard plastics, foam materials, and/or composite materialsincluding metals, plastic, wood. In embodiments, a skin assembly may beprovide protection from environmental conditions (such as sun, rain,and/or wind).

In embodiments, a second extension assembly 150 connects and/or couplesa core assembly module 130 to an expansion assembly sensor module(and/or arm extension assembly module) 160. In embodiments, an expansionsensor assembly module 160 may have universal connectors and/orreceptacles on both ends to connect or couple to universal receptaclesand/or connectors, on the core assembly 130 and/or expansion sensorassembly module 160. FIG. 1 illustrates that a second extension assemblyor module 150 may have three lengths. In embodiments, a second extensionassembly 150 may have one of a plurality of lengths depending on howmuch clearance a user and/or owner may like to have between a coreassembly module 130 and spokes of an expansion sensor assembly or module160. In embodiments, a second extension assembly or module 150 maycomprise a hollow tube and/or channels for wires and/or other componentsthat pass through the second extension assembly or module 150. Inembodiments, a hollow tube 249 (see FIG. 2A) may be coupled, connectedand/or fixed to a nut that is connected to, for example, a threaded rod(which is part of an expansion motor assembly). In embodiments, a hollowtube 249 may be moved up and down based on movement of the threaded rod.In embodiments, a hollow tube in a second extension assembly may bereplaced by a shaft and/or rod assembly.

In embodiments, an expansion and sensor module 160 may be connectedand/or coupled to a second extension assembly or module 150. Inembodiments, an expansion and sensor assembly or module 160 may beconnected and/or coupled to a second extension assembly or module 150via a universal connector. In embodiments, an expansion and sensorassembly or module 160 may comprise an arm or spoke expansion sensorassembly 162 and a sensor assembly housing 168. In embodiments, anexpansion and sensor assembly or module 160 may be connected to a hollowtube 249 and thus coupled to a threaded rod. In embodiments, when ahollow tube moves up and down, an arm or spoke expansion assembly 162opens and/or retracts, which causes spokes/blades 164 of an armextension assembly 163. In embodiments, arms, spokes and/or blades 164may detachably connected to the arm or spoke support assemblies 163.

In embodiments, an expansion and sensor assembly module 160 may have aplurality of arms, spokes or blades 164 (which may be detachable orremovable). Because the umbrella system is modular and/or adjustable tomeet needs of user and/or environment, an arm or spoke expansionassembly 162 may not have a set number of arm, blade or spoke supportassemblies 163. In embodiments, a user and/or owner may determine and/orconfigure a modular umbrella system 100 with a number or arms, spokes,or blades extensions 163 (and thus detachable spokes, arms and/or blades164) necessary for a certain function and attach, couple and/or connectan expansion sensor assembly or module 160 with a spoke expansionassembly 162 with a desired number of blades, arms or spoke connectionsto a second extension module or assembly 150 and/or a core moduleassembly or housing 130. Prior umbrellas or shading systems utilize aset or established number of ribs and were not adjustable orconfigurable. In contrast, a modular umbrella system 100 describedherein has an ability to have a detachable and adjustable expansionsensor module 162 comprising an adjustable number of arm/spoke/bladesupport assemblies or connections 163 (and therefore a flexible andadjustable number of arms/spokes/blades 164), which provides a user withmultiple options in providing shade and/or protection. In embodiments,expansion and sensor expansion module 160 may be detachable or removablefrom a second extension module 150 and/or a core assembly module 130 andalso one or more spokes, arms and/or assemblies 164 may be detachable orremovable from arm or spoke support assemblies 163. Therefore, dependingon the application or use, a user, operator and/or owner may detachablyremove an expansion and sensor module or assembly 160 having a firstnumber of arm/blade/spoke support assemblies 163 and replace it with adifferent expansion sensor module or assembly 160 having a differentnumber of arm/blade/spoke support assemblies 163.

In embodiments, arms, blades and/or spokes 164 may be detachablyconnected and/or removable from one or more arm support assemblies 163.In embodiments, arms, blades, and/or spokes 164 may be snapped, adhered,coupled and/or connected to associated arm support assemblies 163. Inembodiments, arms, blades and/or spokes 164 may be detached, attachedand/or removed before deployment of the arm extension assemblies 163.

In embodiments, a shading fabric 165 may be connected, attached and/oradhered to one or more arm extension assemblies 163 and provide shadefor an area surrounding, below and/or adjacent to a modular umbrellasystem 100. In embodiments, a shading fabric (or multiple shadingfabrics) may be connected, attached, and/or adhered to one or morespokes, arms and/or blades 164. In embodiments, a shading fabric orcovering 165 may have integrated therein, one or more solar panelsand/or cells (not shown). In embodiments, solar panels and/or cells maygenerate electricity and convert the energy from a solar power source toelectricity. In embodiments, solar panels may be coupled to a shadingpower charging system (not shown). In embodiments, one or more solarpanels and/or cells may be positioned on top of a shading fabric 165. Inembodiments, one or more solar panels and/or cells may be connected,adhered, positioned, attached on and/or placed on a shading fabric 165.

In embodiments, an expansion sensor assembly or module 160 may compriseone or more audio speakers 167. In embodiments, an expansion sensorassembly or module 160 may further comprise an audio/video transceiver.In embodiments, a core assembly 130 may comprise and/or house anaudio/video transceiver (e.g., a Bluetooth or other PAN transceiver,such as Bluetooth transceiver 197). In embodiments, an expansion sensorassembly or module 160 may comprise an audio/video transceiver (e.g., aBluetooth and/or PAN transceiver) In embodiments, an audio/videotransceiver in an expansion sensor assembly or module 160 may receiveaudio signals from an audio/video transceiver 197 in a core assembly130, convert to an electrical audio signal and reproduce the sound onone or more audio speakers 167, which projects sound in an outwardand/or downward fashion from a modular umbrella system 100. Inembodiments, one or more audio speakers 167 may be positioned and/orintegrated around a circumference of an expansion sensor assembly ormodule 160.

In embodiments, an expansion sensor assembly or module 160 may compriseone or more LED lighting assemblies 166. In embodiments, one or more LEDlighting assemblies 166 may comprise bulbs and/or LED lights and/or alight driver and/or ballast. In embodiments, an expansion sensorassembly or module 160 may comprise one or more LED lighting assembliespositioned around an outer surface of the expansion sensor assembly ormodule 160. In embodiments, one or more LED lighting assemblies 166 maydrive one or more lights. In embodiments, a light driver may receive asignal from a controller or a processor in a modular umbrella system 100to activate/deactivate LED lights. The LED lights may project light intoan area surrounding a modular umbrella system 100. In embodiments, oneor more lighting assemblies 166 may be recessed into an expansion orsensor module or assembly 160.

In embodiments, an arm expansion sensor housing or module 160 may alsocomprise a sensor housing 168. In embodiments, a sensor housing 168 maycomprise one or more environmental sensors, one or more telemetrysensors, and/or a sensor housing cover. In embodiments, one or moreenvironmental sensors may comprise one or more air quality sensors, oneor more UV radiation sensors, one or more digital barometer sensors, oneor more temperature sensors, one or more humidity sensors, one or morecarbon monoxide sensors, one or more carbon dioxide sensors, one or moregas sensors, one or more radiation sensors, one or more interferencesensors, one or more lightning sensors, one or more and/or one or morewind speed sensors. In embodiments, one or more telemetry sensors maycomprise a GPS/GNSS sensor and/or one or more digital compass sensors.In embodiments, a sensor housing 168 may also comprise one or moreaccelerometers and/or one or more gyroscopes. In embodiments, a sensorhousing 168 may comprise sensor printed circuit boards and/or a sensorcover (which may or may not be transparent). In embodiments, a sensorprinted circuit board may communicate with one or more environmentalsensors and/or one or more telemetry sensors (e.g., receive measurementsand/or raw data), process the measurements and/or raw data andcommunicate sensor measurements and/or data to a motion control printedcircuit board (e.g., controller) and/or a computing device (e.g.,controller and/or processor). In embodiments, a sensor housing 168 maybe detachably connected to an arm connection housing/spoke connectionhousing to allow for different combinations of sensors to be utilizedfor different umbrellas. In embodiments, a sensor cover of a sensorhousing 168 may be clear and/or transparent to allow for sensors to beprotected from an environment around a modular umbrella system. Inembodiments, a sensor cover may be moved and/or opened to allow forsensors (e.g., air quality sensors to obtain more accurate measurementsand/or readings). In embodiments, a sensor printed circuit board maycomprise environmental sensors, telemetry sensors, accelerometers,gyroscopes, processors, memory, and/or controllers in order to allow asensor printed circuit board to receive measurements and/or readingsfrom sensors, process received sensor measurements and/or readings,analyze sensor measurements and/or readings and/or communicate sensormeasurements and/or readings to processors and/or controllers in a coreassembly or module 130 of a modular umbrella system 100.

In embodiments, a modular umbrella shading system 100 may comprise alightning sensor. In embodiments, a lightning sensor may be installed ona base assembly 110. In embodiments, a lightning sensor may be installedon a core module or core assembly 130. In embodiments, a lightningsensor may be installed on a sensor and/or expansion assembly or module160. In embodiments, a lightning sensor may be installed, attached,fastened and/or positioned on a shading fabric, an arm, and/or a bladeof an intelligent shading system. In embodiments, a lightning sensor maybe installed on and/or within a sensor housing 168. In embodiments, alightning sensor may be installed on and/or connected, adhered orcoupled to a skin of an intelligent umbrella and/or shading system. Inembodiments, a lightning sensor may detect lightning conditions aroundan area or in a vicinity of an intelligent umbrella and/or shadingsystem. In embodiments, a lightning sensor may detect an interferencesignal strength and/or pattern in an atmosphere that corresponds toeither intra-cloud lightning conditions and/or occurrences, and/or tocloud-to-ground lightning conditions and/or occurrences. In embodiments,a lightning sensor may have tolerance conditions set. In embodiments, alightning sensor may also able to measure and/or calculate a distancefrom a location with an intelligent shading system and/or intelligentumbrella to a location where a lightning event and/or condition hasoccurred. In embodiments, a lightning sensor may be an AustriaMicrosystems Franklin AS3935 digital lightning sensor. In embodiments, alightning sensor may calculate signal measurements, signal strengths,other conditions (e.g., based at least on interference received withrespect to lightning conditions) and/or distances, and may communicatesignal measurements, signal strengths, other conditions and/or distancesto a memory in an intelligent umbrella for storage. In embodiments,lightning sensor signal measurements, strengths, conditions and/ordistances may be communicated to a computing device 136 where one ormore processors may execute computer-readable instructions to 1) receivelightning sensor signal measurements, strength measurements, conditionsand/or distances, 2) process such measurements and/or conditions; and 3)generate commands, instructions, messages and/or signals to causeactions by other components and/or assemblies in an intelligent umbrellaand/or robotic shading system in response to measurements and/orconditions captured and/or received by a lightning sensor. Inembodiments, computer-readable instructions fetched from one or morememory modules and executed by a processor of a computing device 136 maygenerate and communicate commands to a motion control board 134 to causedifferent motor assemblies to move assemblies (e.g., an upper portion ofa core assembly and/or are support assemblies to extend arms) of anintelligent umbrella and/or shading system. In embodiments, becauseportions of an intelligent umbrella and/or shading system are metallic,computer-readable instructions executed by one or more processors maygenerate and communicate commands, messages, signals or instructions tocause an expansion and sensor assembly 160 to retract arms and/or spokes164 to a rest or closed position and/or to turn off other sensors in asensor housing to protect sensors from lightning strikes. Inembodiments, because portions of an intelligent umbrella and/or shadingsystem are metallic and conductive, computer-readable instructionsexecuted by one or more processors may generate and communicatecommands, messages, signals or instructions to cause an expansion andsensor assembly 160, a core assembly 130 and/or a base assembly to turnoff or deactivate other components, motors, processors and/or sensors toprevent damage from electrical (voltage and/or current surges) in asensor housing to protect sensors from lightning strikes. Inembodiments, computer-readable instructions executed by a processor of acomputing device 136 (or other processor/controller) may generate andcommunicate commands, messages, signals and/or instructions to a soundreproduction system (e.g., an audio receiver and/or speaker) to cause analarm to be activated and/or a warning message to be reproduced and/orgenerate and communicate commands, messages, signals and/or instructionsto a lighting system 166 to generate lights and/or rays indicating adangerous situation is occurring or going to occur. In addition, becauselightning strikes can damage electrical components, a lightning sensor'smeasurements, conditions and/or distances may be communicated to aprocessor and computer-readable instructions executed by one or moreprocessors may generate and communicate commands to a power subsystem(e.g., a rechargeable battery and/or power charging assembly) to poweroff an intelligent umbrella and/or shading system 100 and/or to poweroff and/or deactivate components and/or assemblies susceptible tolightning strikes and large voltage and/or current surges associatedtherewith. Advantages of having a lightning sensor integrated within anintelligent umbrella and/or shading system 100 and/or attached,connected or coupled thereto, are that a lightning sensor may identifydangerous conditions, shut down portions of an intelligent umbrellaand/or shading system and warn users of a potentially damaging anddangerous situation when a user or operator may not be aware suchdangerous conditions are present.

In embodiments, a modular umbrella shading system 100 may comprise aninterference sensor (e.g., a noise sensor and/or a wireless noise orinterference sensor or scanner). In embodiments, such an interferencesensor may identify sources and strengths of noise and/or interferencein a vicinity of an intelligent umbrella and/or robotic shading system100. For example, interference and/or noise may be radio frequencyinterference, electromagnetic interference, randomly generated noise,impulse noise, acoustic noise, thermal noise, etc. For example, noiseand/or interference may be present in certain wireless communicationspectrum bands. In embodiments, an interference sensor may be installedor located on a base assembly 110. In embodiments, an interferencesensor may be installed or located on a core module or core assembly130. In embodiments, an interference sensor may be installed or locatedon a sensor and/or expansion assembly or module 160. In embodiments, aninterference sensor may be installed, position, attached, and/orconnected to a shading fabric, an arm support assembly and/or an arm orblade of an intelligent umbrella. In embodiments, an interference sensormay be installed on and/or within a sensor housing 168. In embodiments,a lightning sensor may be installed on and/or connected, adhered orcoupled to a skin of an intelligent umbrella and/or shading system. Inembodiments, an interference sensor may detect noise and/or interferenceconditions around or in a vicinity of an intelligent umbrella and/orshading system. In embodiments, an interference sensor may detect and/ormeasure an interference signal strength (e.g., interference that mayimpact operations of wireless transceivers) and/or an interference typethat corresponds to noise sources generating noise and interference inan environment or that is projected and/or communicated into an areaaround an intelligent umbrella and/or shading system. In embodiments,the noise and/or interference may be from natural sources (e.g.,electromagnetic waves, sound waves, impulse waves), from mechanicaldevices, from acoustic devices, and/or other electronic devices (e.g.,home security systems, other routers, wireless printers, wirelesstransmitters and/or receivers, and/or ICs). In embodiments, aninterference sensor may have tolerance conditions established and mayidentify different type of noise and/or interference. In embodiments, aninterference sensor may also able to measure and/or calculate a type ofnoise and/or interference, where a source may be located and how oftenthe noise and/or interference may be detected and/or measured. Inembodiments, an interference sensor may calculate signal measurements,signal strengths, and/or other conditions (e.g., is it repetitive and/orrandomly occurring and is it based at least on other conditionsassociated with measured interference). In embodiments, an interferencesensor may communicate signal measurements, signal strengths, otherconditions and/or locations to a memory for storage. In embodiments,interference sensor signal measurements, strengths, conditions and/ordistances may be communicated to a computing device 136 where one ormore processors may execute computer-readable instructions to 1) receiveinterference sensor signal measurements, strength measurements, and/orconditions; and/or 2) process such measurements and/or conditions. Inembodiments, one or more processors (e.g., in a computing device 136) inconjunction with computer-readable instructions executed by the one ormore processors may generate commands, instructions, messages and/orsignals to cause actions by other components and/or assemblies inresponse to measurements and/or conditions captured and/or received byan interference sensor. In embodiments, computer-readable instructionsfetched from one or more memory modules and executed by a processor(e.g., of a computing device 136) may generate and communicate commandsto a motion control board 134 (or other circuits or circuit assemblies)to cause different motor assemblies to move assemblies of an intelligentumbrella and/or shading system to different locations and/or positions.In embodiments, interference sensor measurements may identify thatcellular communications may not be reliable in an area around anintelligent umbrella because of a high level of interference in acellular communications frequency band and computer-readableinstructions executable by one or more processors may communicatecommands and/or signals to a cellular transceiver to deactivate acellular transceiver 195. In embodiments, computer-readable instructionsexecutable by a processor may also not communicate any commands,signals, instructions and/or messages to a cellular transceiver 195until interference and/or noise conditions have improved. Inembodiments, computer-readable instructions executed by a processor of acomputing device 136 (or other processor/controller) may generate andcommunicate commands, messages, signals and/or instructions to a soundreproduction system (e.g., an audio receiver and/or speaker) to cause analarm to be activated and/or a warning message to be reproduced and/orgenerate and communicate commands, messages, signals and/or instructionsto a lighting system and/or sound communication system to generatelights and/or audible alerts indicating a dangerous or problematicsituation is occurring or going to occur (e.g., high level of impulsenoise or EMI). In addition, because high levels of different types ofnoise can impact performance of specific electrical components, aninterference sensor's measurements, conditions and/or distances may becommunicated to a processor and computer-readable instructions executedby one or more processors may generate and communicate commands to apower subsystem (e.g., a rechargeable battery and/or power chargingassembly) to power to power off and/or deactivate components and/orassemblies susceptible to noise and/or interference. Advantages ofhaving an interference sensor integrated within an intelligent umbrellaand/or shading system 100 and/or attached, connected or coupled thereto,are that an interference sensor may identify problematic conditions,shut down portions of an intelligent umbrella and/or shading system inresponse thereto, and/or warn users of a potentially problematic anddangerous situation. In addition, an intelligent umbrella with aninterference sensor may operate more efficiently by avoiding certaincommunication frequency bands having large levels of noise which couldimpact accuracy of wireless communications.

FIGS. 2A, 2B and 2C illustrate a cut-away drawing of mechanicalassemblies in a modular umbrella system according to embodiments. Inembodiments, a modular umbrella shading assembly 200 may comprise a baseassembly 210, a first extension assembly 220, a core assembly or module230, a base receptacle 213, a force transfer shaft 212, an azimuth motor231, and/or an azimuth motor shaft 229. In embodiments, a firstextension assembly 220 and a core assembly module 230 may rotate in aclockwise or counterclockwise manner direction (as illustrated byreference number 215) with respect to a base assembly 210. Inembodiments, an azimuth motor 231 comprises an azimuth motor shaft 229that may rotate in response to activation and/or utilization of anazimuth motor 231. In embodiments, an azimuth motor shaft 229 may bemechanically coupled (e.g., a gearing system, a friction-based system,etc.) to a force transfer shaft 212. In embodiments, an azimuth motorshaft 229 may rotate in a clockwise and/or counterclockwise directionand in response, a force transfer shaft 212 may rotate in a same and/oropposite direction. In embodiments, a force transfer shaft 212 may passthrough a first extension assembly 220 and may be mechanically coupledto a base receptacle 213 in a base assembly 210. In response to, or dueto, rotation of force transfer shaft 212 in a base receptacle 213, afirst extension assembly 220 and/or a core assembly 230 may rotate withrespect to the base assembly 210.

In embodiments, a modular umbrella system 200 may comprise a coreassembly 230 which may comprise a lower core assembly 242 and an uppercore assembly 240. In embodiments, a lower core assembly 242 maycomprise an elevation motor 232, an elevation motor shaft 233, a wormgear 234, and/or a speed reducing gear 235. In embodiments, a speedreducing gear 235 may be connected with a connector to a connectionplate 236. In embodiments, a lower core assembly 242 may be mechanicallycoupled to an upper core assembly 240 via a connection plate 236. Inembodiments, a connection plate 236 may be connected to an upper coreassembly 240 via a connector and/or fastener. In embodiments, anelevation motor 232 may cause rotation (e.g., clockwise orcounterclockwise) of an elevation motor shaft 233, which may bemechanically coupled to a worm gear 234. In embodiments, rotation of anelevation motor shaft 233 may cause rotation (e.g., clockwise orcounterclockwise) of a worm gear 234. In embodiments, a worm gear 234may be mechanically coupled to a speed reducing gear 235. Inembodiments, rotation of a worm gear 234 may cause rotation of a speedreducing gear 235 via engagement of channels of a worm gear 234 withteeth of a speed reducing gear 235. In embodiments, a sped reducing gear235 may be mechanically coupled to a connection plate 236 to an uppercore assembly 240 via a fastener or connector. In embodiments, rotationof a speed reducing gear 235 may cause a connection plate 236 (and/or anupper core assembly 240) to rotate with respect to a lower core assembly242 in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction as is illustrated byreference number 217. In embodiments, an upper core assembly 240 mayrotate with respect to the lower core assembly 242 approximately 90degrees via movement of the connection plate. In embodiments, an uppercore assembly 240 may rotate approximately 0 to 30 degrees with respectto the lower core assembly 242 via movement of the connection plate.

In embodiments, an upper core assembly 240 may comprise an extensionexpansion motor 233 and an extension expansion motor shaft 247. Inembodiments, an expansion motor 233 may be activated and may rotate anextension expansion motor shaft 247. In embodiments, an expansion motorshaft 247 may be mechanically coupled to a threaded rod 246 which may bemechanically couple to a travel nut 248 (e.g., a nut may be screwed ontothe threaded rod 246). In embodiments, an expansion motor shaft 247 mayrotate a threaded rod 246 which may cause a travel nut 248 to move in avertical direction (e.g., up or down). In embodiments, a travel nut 248may be mechanically coupled to a connection rod 249. In embodiments, atravel nut 248 may move in vertical direction (e.g., up or down) whichmay cause a connection rod 249 to move in a vertical direction (e.g., upor down) as is illustrated by reference number 251. In embodiments, aconnection rod 249 may be partially positioned and/or located within anupper core assembly 240 and may be partially positioned within a secondextension assembly 250. In embodiments, a connection rod 249 and/or asecond extension assembly 250 may have varying lengths based on adesired height of a modular umbrella system 200. In embodiments, aconnection rod 249 may be mechanically coupled to an expansion assemblyshaft 263.

In embodiments, an arm expansion sensor housing or module 260 maycomprise an expansion assembly shaft 263, a rack gear 265, one or morespoke/arm expansion assemblies 262, and a sensor module 268. Inembodiments, an expansion assembly shaft or hollow tube 263 may bemechanically coupled to a rack gear 265. In embodiments, movement of anexpansion shaft or hollow tube 263 up or down in a vertical directionmay move a rack gear 265 in a vertical direction (e.g., up or down). Inembodiments, one or more spoke expansion assemblies 262 may bemechanically coupled to a rack gear 265. In embodiments, gears on one ormore spoke/arm expansion assemblies 262 may engage channels in a rackgear 265. In embodiments, a rack gear 265 may move in a verticaldirection (e.g., up or down) which may cause movement of one or morespoke/arm expansion assemblies 262 from an open position (as isillustrated in FIGS. 2A, 2B and 2C) to a closed position (or vice versafrom a closed position to an open position). In embodiments, movement ofone or more spoke/arm expansion assemblies 262 is illustrated byreference number 275 in FIGS. 2A, 2B and 2C. In embodiments, spokes/arms264 may be mechanically coupled to spoke expansion assemblies 262. Inembodiments, one or more spokes/arms 264 may be detachable from one ormore spoke/arm expansion assemblies 262.

Prior art shading systems utilizing at the most one motor to move ashade into a desired position. Shading systems do not utilize more thanone motor and this limits movement of a shade system to track the sunand provide protection to users of a shading system. Accordingly,utilizing of two or more motors in a shading system allow movement of ashading element (or multiple shading elements) to track the sun, toprotect a user from other weather elements and/or to capture a largeamount of solar energy. These are improvements other shading systemswhich cannot move and/or rotate about more than one axis. Although,FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, 2A, 2B, and 2C describe a shading system with threemotors, additional motors may be utilized to, for example, rotate ashading system (utilizing a motor in a base system next to a surface),additional motors to deploy additional accessories within a shadingsystem core assembly module (e.g., lighting assemblies, wind turbines,camera mounts), or additional motors to deploy accessories within anexpansion and sensor assembly module (e.g., deploy sensors, deploy solarpanels, move speakers to different positions or orientations and/or movelighting assemblies to different positions and/or orientations).

FIG. 3 illustrates a block diagram power subsystem of a parasol,umbrella or shading system according to embodiments. In embodiments, apower subsystem 300 comprises one or more solar cells or solar cellpanels 305, one or more solar charging assemblies 310, one or more powerbuses 315, one or more rechargeable batteries 320, and one or moreelectrical or electro-mechanical assemblies 324 325 326 327 328 and 329.In embodiments, one or more solar cells or solar cell panels 305 maygenerate electrical energy or electrical power from a light source(e.g., the sun). In embodiments, one or more solar cells or solar cellpanels 305 may transfer power or electrical energy to one or more solarcharging assemblies 310. In embodiments, one or more solar chargingassemblies 310 may be solar charge controllers. In embodiments, one ormore solar charging assemblies 310 may comprise computer interfaces thatmonitor and control power output from one or more solar cells or solarcell panels. In embodiments, indicators may monitor, control and/ordisplay output power (e.g., one or more LED lighting assemblies may showthat power is being supplied and that some power is being output via asolar charging assembly). In embodiments, one or more solar chargingassemblies 310 may also display voltage and/or current being suppliedfrom one or more solar panels or solar cell panels and/or may alsodisplay voltage and/or current being output by one or more solarcharging assemblies 310 as well as displaying how much current is beingpulled from a load terminal (and thus supplied to a rechargeable powersource, components and/or assemblies).

In embodiments, one or more solar charging assemblies 310 may supplypower to one or more rechargeable power sources (e.g., rechargeablebatteries) 320. In embodiments, one or more solar charging assemblies310 may supply power (e.g., voltage and/or current) to a power busand/or power cables 315. In embodiments, the power supplied to a powerbus and/or power cables 315 from one or more solar charging assemblies310 may be at an approximate level of 12 volts (or between 11 to 17volts). In embodiments, one or more solar charging assemblies 310 mayprovide power to a rechargeable power source 320 at a level between 11and 17 volts (or at approximately 12 volts). In embodiments, a power busand/or power cables 315 may supply power (e.g., voltage and/or current)to one or more components, assemblies or apparatuses (e.g., one or moreelectrical or electro-mechanical assemblies 324 325 326 327 328 and329). For example, component 324 may be a motor control printed circuitboard; reference number 325 may be a camera; reference number 326 may bean integrated computing device 326; reference number 327 may be one ormore microphones; reference number 328 may be one or more sensorassemblies or sensors; and reference number 329 may be one or morelighting assemblies. In embodiments, components such as a motor controlPCB 324, one or more cameras 325, one or more integrated computingdevices 326, one or microphones 327, one or more sensors or sensorassemblies 328, and one or more lighting assemblies 329 may not utilize12 volts and if not then these components and/or assemblies include avoltage regulate to provide a lower voltage, such as 3.3 Volts and/or 5volts. In embodiments, one or more renewable power sources (e.g.,rechargeable batteries) 320 may be placed in a battery housing. Inembodiments, one or more battery housings may be placed around a centercore assembly.

FIG. 4A illustrates a base assembly including a base stand, a base lowerhousing and base housing according to embodiments. In embodiments, abase assembly may comprise a base stand 450, a base lower housing 451and a base upper housing 452. In embodiments, a base assembly may bemovable. In embodiments, a base stand 450 may comprise one or more wheelassemblies 474, which allow a base stand 450 (and thus the base assemblyand umbrella, parasol or shading system) to be able to move. Inembodiments, a base stand may comprise one or more plates 461 and one ormore ball bearings 460. In embodiments, one or more ball bearings may beinserted into grooves or channels or one or more plates 461. Inembodiments, one or more plates 461 may be circular and/or may compriseone or more concentric circles. In embodiments, a base stand 450 maycomprise a hall sensor 476 or magnetic detection sensor (although inother embodiments, a base stand 450 may comprise a magnetic or magneticassembly 475). In embodiments, a base lower housing 451 may comprise abattery housing 401 or power source housing 401. In embodiments, a shaft470 may run through a base lower housing 451 and a base upper housing452. In embodiments, a base lower housing may comprise a torque limiter420, which is connected and/or coupled to a shaft assembly 470. Inembodiments, a torque limiter 420 may keep an umbrella and/or shadingsystem from having base assemblies and/or core assemblies broken ormalfunctioning during excessive twisting and/or torque from rotation,pulling or pushing of a core assembly (and/or remainder of umbrella,parasol). In embodiments, excessive torque conditions may be caused bymotor malfunctioning or an individual grabbing a core assembly andtrying to manually move or rotate a core assembly. In embodiments, if anormal amount of torque is placed on a base assembly, then a torquelimiter 420 is not engaged and rotation is limited. If an excessiveamount of torque is present, then a torque limiter 420 is engaged and amotor assembly is stopped or reduced. In embodiments, a torque limitermay be a clutch or clutch assembly.

In embodiments, a base upper housing 452 may comprise an amizuth motorassembly 472, which may operate in a similar fashion to the azimuthmotor assembly 472 described in FIG. 1A, 1B, or 1C. In embodiments, anazimuth motor assembly 472 may be located in a shaft or tube and maycause a base lower housing 451 and base upper housing 452 (and remainderof an umbrella, parasol or shading system) to rotate in an azimuthdirection around a base stand 450. In embodiments, ball bearings 460 inplate 461 allow for smooth rotation of a base lower housing 451 and baseupper housing 452 with respect to a base stand. In embodiments, a bottomparty or floor of a battery housing 401 may be connected or coupled ortouch a plate 461 and/or one or more ball bearings 460. In embodiments,a lower base housing 451 may comprise a magnet or magnetic assembly 475(although in other embodiments, the lower base housing 451 may comprisea magnetic field sensor of hall sensor 476). In embodiments, a magnet ormagnetic assembly 475 and a hall sensor 476 may be utilized to verifythat an umbrella's, parasol's or shading system's umbrella knows anorientation of a base stand 450 with respect to the rest of theumbrella, parasol or shading system. If the remainder of the umbrella isnot aligned (including the base lower housing) with the base stand 450,then the umbrella, parasol or shading system may not know an orientation(e.g., what direction an umbrella is facing). This impacts manycalculations made by the umbrella during initiation or configuration ofthe umbrella and throws off the sun tracking features of the umbrella,parasol or shading system. Accordingly, the hall sensor 476 is verifyingthat a magnet 475 is aligned with it and in a position that is known andtherefore that the orientation of the umbrella or parasol is known.

FIG. 4B illustrates a rechargeable power source housing according toembodiments. In embodiments, a rechargeable power source housing 401 maycomprise one or more power source holders (e.g., battery holders) 405406 407, one or more power source tops 408 409 410, a circular plate415, one or more rechargeable power sources 418 419 422 421 and wiring425 coupled to one or more power buses 430. In embodiments, each of theone or more power source holders 405 406 407 may hold one or morerechargeable power sources 418 419 422 421 (four may be shown in FIG.4B), but any number of rechargeable batteries may be utilized. Inembodiments, one or more rechargeable power sources 418 419 422 421 maybe connected to wiring 425 which in turn may be coupled or connected toone or more power buses to provide + or −12 volts. In embodiments, oneor more power source tops 408 409 410 may be connected to one or morecorresponding power source holders 405 406 407 via a snap fit connectorand/or tabs. In embodiments, a circular plate 415 may be adhered orconnected to the one or more power source holders 405 406 407. Inembodiments, a circular plate 415 and/or power source holders 405 406407 may be an integrated piece and may be manufactured using additivemanufacturing or 3D printing techniques. In embodiments, a circularplate 415 may have a hole 416 in a middle in order to let a tubularassembly (e.g., a shaft 470) to pass through a middle and be able toconstruct the remainder of the umbrella. In embodiments, a circularplate 415 may be connected, adhered or fastened to either a baseassembly or a core assembly module. In embodiments, a rechargeable powersource housing 401 may be located in a bottom base housing, although itmay be located in any portion of a core assembly module (and potentiallybase assembly). In embodiments, a rechargeable power source housing 401may be located in a section of a base assembly

FIG. 4C illustrates a base assembly include a torque limiter and augerassembly according to embodiments. In embodiments, a base assembly 405may comprise a base housing 410, one or more shafts 470, one or moretorque limiters 420, one or more connecting assemblies 431, one or moregearing assemblies 435 and/or one or more augers 440. In embodiments,one or more base assemblies 405 may be detachable from a core assemblyin order to allow for different assemblies to dig into or burrow into aloose surfaces such as turf, sand, grass, gravel or mud. In embodiments,FIG. 4C illustrates an auger to burrow into and/or connect to a grass ordirt surface; however different connection assemblies or drivingassemblies may be utilized to drill into and/or burrow into thedifferent surfaces. In embodiments, a base assembly 405 may be detachedfrom a core assembly. In embodiments, a handle 445 and a connectionassembly 431 may be attached and/or connected to the base assembly 405.In embodiments, a connection assembly 431 may be circular in shape andmay fit within a channel of a base assembly 405 in order to make afitted connection. In embodiments, friction and/or magnets may allow forbetter connection between connection assembly 431 and a base assembly405. In embodiments, a handle 445 may be permanently attached to aconnection assembly 431 via an adhesive, a connector, a magneticconnector and a screw. In embodiments, a handle 445 may be detachablyattached to a connection assembly 431. In embodiments, a handle 445 maybe rotated which may cause a shaft or shaft assembly 470 to rotate. Inembodiments, a handle 445 may be connected directly to a shaft or shaftassembly 470 or there may be a gearing assembly or gears placed betweenthe handle 445 and/or shaft or shaft assembly 470. In embodiments, ashaft or shaft assembly 470 may be connected and/or couple to one ormore gearing assemblies 435. In embodiments, one or more gearingassemblies 435 may be coupled or connected to an auger or auger assembly440. In embodiments, rotation of a shaft or shaft assembly 470 may causerotation of the one or more gearing assemblies 435, which in turn maycause rotation of the auger or auger assembly 440. Rotation of the augerand/or auger assembly 440 causes the auger and/or auger assembly toburrow or drill into the ground surface. In embodiments, this means thatthe base assembly 405 may be connected into the ground surface. Then,the base assembly 405 may be attached to the core assembly and theshading system or umbrella may be provided more stability in looseground surfaces such as sand, loose dirt, ground, and/or gravel.

In embodiments, a base assembly 405 may comprise a torque limiter 420.In embodiments, a torque limiter 420 may keep an umbrella and/or shadingsystem from having base assemblies and/or core assemblies broken ormalfunctioning during excessive twisting and/or torque from rotation ofa core assembly (and remainder of umbrella). In embodiments, excessivetorque conditions may be caused by motor malfunctioning or an individualgrabbing a core assembly and trying to manually move or rotate a coreassembly. In embodiments, if a normal amount of torque is placed on abase assembly, then a torque limiter 420 is not engaged and rotation islimited. If an excessive amount of torque is present, then a torquelimiter 420 is engaged and a motor assembly is stopped or reduced.

In embodiments, an umbrella, parasol and/or shading system may comprisean intelligence housing (e.g., a brain box) to control a number offunctions and/or features of the umbrella, parasol or shading system.FIG. 5A illustrates a block diagram of an intelligence housing accordingto embodiments. In embodiments, an intelligence housing 500 may bemanufactured utilizing additive manufacturing techniques (e.g., 3Dprinting) and may be comprised of plastic, composite materials or acombination thereof. In embodiments, an intelligent housing 500 maycomprise one or more wind sensor assemblies 505, one or more motorcontrol assemblies or motion control board 510, one or more imagingdevices 515, one or more integrated computing devices (e.g., RaspberryPi) 520, one or more microphones or line arrays 525 and one or moreproximity sensors 530. In embodiments, an intelligence housing 500 maycomprise one or more wireless communication transceivers 535. Inembodiments, wireless communication transceivers 535 in an intelligencehousing may communicate with a remote computing device (e.g., a serveror a cloud-based server), a mobile computing device and/or an audioreceiver.

FIG. 5B illustrates a perspective view of an intelligence housing withone side cover removed according to embodiments. FIG. 5C illustrates aperspective view of an intelligence housing with covers installedaccording to embodiments. In embodiments, an intelligence housing 500may have four sides. In embodiments, one or more sides may havedifferent thicknesses and/or may have a different shape (e.g., may be arectangle having a specified thickness or may have different channels beformed therein). In embodiments, adjacent sides of the one or more sidesof the intelligence housing may be connected to each other atapproximately right angles (e.g., approximately 90 degrees) or from 70degrees to 110 degrees with respect to each other. In embodiments, aspace 540 may be formed or be present in an intelligence housing 500(e.g., in a middle of an intelligence or electronics housing to allowfor passage of a shaft and/or tubular assemblies of the umbrella,parasol or shading housing). In embodiments, a space 540 may be utilizedto provide air cooling for printed circuit boards or other components ofan intelligence housing by utilizing air movement through the space 540.In embodiments, one or more components, printed circuit boards orsensors (505, 510, 515, 520, 525 or 530—see FIG. 5A) may be mounted orinstalled on outside surfaces of one or more sides of the intelligencehousing 500. FIG. 5B illustrates side 504 and side 503. Alternatively,some components or assemblies may be mounted on an inside surface of anintelligence housing 500. In embodiments, although a specificconfiguration may be shown in the drawings and discussed inspecification below, one or more components and/or assemblies or devicesmay be installed on a different surfaces and/or sides of an intelligencehousing 500. Placement of components, assemblies and/or devices maydepend on space availability on sides of an intelligence housing 500,interference considerations (e.g., noise interference and/or spectruminterference), heat considerations and/or power requirementconsiderations. In embodiments, a first side of an intelligence housing500 may comprise one or more wind sensor assemblies 505 and one or moreproximity sensors 530 being mounted or installed thereon. Inembodiments, a second side of an intelligence housing 500 may compriseone or more microphone arrays 525 and/or one or more motor controlassemblies or motor control printed circuit boards 510. In embodiments,a third side of an intelligence housing 500 may comprise a single boardcomputer 520 (e.g., Raspberry Pi—or an integrated computing device)comprising one or more memory devices, one or more processors, andcomputer-readable/executable instructions stored in the one or morememory devices). In embodiments, a third side of an intelligence housing500 may further comprise one or more wireless communication transceivers535. In embodiments, one or more wireless communication transceivers 535may be installed on a printed circuit board which is installed on athird surface (or alternatively may be integrated into a chip orintegrated circuit which is installed on a third surface of intelligencehousing 500). In embodiments, a fourth side of an intelligence housing500 may comprise one or more microphone arrays 525. In embodiments, afourth side of an intelligence housing 500 may comprise one or moreimaging devices 515 to capture video of an area surrounding an umbrella,parasol or shading system. In embodiments, one or more imaging devices515 may be integrated into a chip or integrated circuit oralternatively, may be mounted onto a printed circuit board. Inembodiments, the different one or more microphone arrays 515 may need tobe installed on opposite sides of an intelligence housing 500 in orderto have close to 360 degree coverage for picking up sounds and/or voicecommands from a user and/or operator. FIG. 5C illustrates a cover 555attached or connected to a side of an intelligence housing 500. Inembodiments, cover 555 includes an opening for to allow for sound wavesto reach one or more microphones or microphone arrays. FIG. 5C alsoillustrates another side 502 of an intelligence housing.

FIG. 5D illustrates a wind sensor assembly according to embodiments. Inembodiments, an intelligence housing 500 may comprise a wind sensorassemblies 505. In embodiments, one or more wind sensor assemblies 505may comprise one or more fan assemblies 506, one or more wind channels507, one or more vents or screens 508 and/or one or more wind speedsensors 509. In embodiments, one or more vents or screens 508 may beplaced over an opening on an intelligence housing 500. In embodiments,an opening may comprise a top portion of one or more wind channels 507.In embodiments, one or more covers, vents and/or screens 505 may preventsmall or large objects from entering a wind channel 507 and damaging awind sensor 509. In embodiments, wind entering wind channel may causeone or more fan assemblies 506 to turn or rotate in proportion to a windspeed. In embodiments, one or more fan assemblies 506 may be connectedor coupled to one or more wind sensors 509. In embodiments, one or morewind sensors 509 may generate wind speed measurements in proportion (orbased at least in part) on fan assembly 506 rotation or turning speed.In embodiments, one or more wind speed sensors 509 may be Hall orHall-effect sensors. In embodiments, one or more wind sensors 509 may becoupled or connected to one or more processors or controllers. Inembodiments, one or wind sensors 509 may communicate generated windspeed measurements to one or more processors or controllers (includingbut not limited to a processor or controller in a parasol, umbrella orshading system integrated computing device).

FIG. 6A illustrates a parasol, umbrella or shading system with amagnetic attachment connector or a POGO connector for attaching a drinkholder according to embodiments. In embodiments, a bottle or cup coolingattachment may be connected to a body 605 of a parasol, umbrella orshading system via a magnetic connector 610. In embodiments, a bottle orcup cooling attachment may be connected to a body of a parasol, umbrellaor shading system via a POGO pin connector 620 or other magneticconnectors. In embodiments, Spring-Loaded (Pogo Pin) connectors mayprovide a reliable electrical connection in the most rigorousenvironments like on a body of a parasol, umbrella or shading systemwhere movement of a body may occur and/or weather or an environment maysubject the drink holder 615 to challenging environmental conditions. Inembodiments, POGO pins interconnects 620 may be used as a stationaryunit (e.g., a portion of a body 605 of a parasol, umbrella or shadingsystem) interface for coupling to assemblies, holders or components. Inembodiments, a drink holder may have a magnet or magnetic assembly 625to connect or couple to a Pogo pins 620 or other magnetic connectors andmay also have a cooling assembly 625 to cool the can, bottle or cupplaced in the drink holder. In embodiments, a body 605 of any section ofan umbrella, parasol or shading system may comprise one or more magnetsand/or magnetic connectors (e.g., pogo pins) so that various attachmentswith other functionality (e.g., music, lighting, sensors, AI) may beattached to an umbrella, parasol or shading system.

FIG. 6B illustrates an umbrella, parasol or shading system with awireless charging assembly for mobile computing devices according toembodiments. In embodiments, a wireless charging assembly 630 may beattached, coupled or connected to a body 605 of an umbrella, shadingsystem or parasol. In embodiments, a wireless charging assembly 630 maycomprise a housing 631, an insertion area 632, or an induction plate633. The mobile computing device 635 (e.g., tablet, mobile or smartphone, wearable computing device) may be inserted into an insertion areaor space 632 and an induction coil 634 in a mobile computing device 635should be placed to rest next to the induction coil or plate 633 of thewireless charging assembly 630. The mobile computing device 635 may thenbe powered via wireless charging using inductive charging techniques. Inembodiments, an induction coil or plate 633 of a wireless chargingassembly 630 may receive power either through electrical connectors orthrough an induction coil 636 in a body 605 of an umbrella, parasol orshading system. In embodiments, a body 605 of an umbrella, parasol orshading system may comprise an internal wireless charging assembly 650which operates in the same fashion as discussed before.

In embodiments, an umbrella, parasol or shading system may have multiplesections. In embodiments, an umbrella, parasol or shading system mayhave a 1) base section or base assembly; 2) a middle section, supportsection/assembly or core assembly; and/or 3) a top section, an uppersection, an arm expansion section or an expansion section. Inembodiments, in order to store or disassemble an umbrella, parasol orshading system or to repair an umbrella, parasol or shading system,sections may need to be detached from one another. Accordingly, anumbrella, parasol or shading system may have detachable sections. Thus,umbrella or parasol sections may be detachably connected to othersections of the umbrella, parasol or shading system via magneticconnections, snap fit connections, clamp connections, channel and/orgroove connections, and/or friction connections. In embodiments,however, an umbrella, parasol, or shading system may need to be madeaware that sections have been detached. FIG. 7 illustrates an umbrella,parasol or shading system having more than one sections with magneticsensing and detachment sensing according to embodiments. Although FIG. 7illustrates an umbrella, parasol or shading system having fivedetachable sections, an umbrella, parasol or shading system may have onedetachable sections, two detachable sections and/or more than fourdetachable sections. FIG. 7 illustrates an umbrella, parasol or shadingsystem with four detachable points (e.g., detachable point 705, 706, 707and 708. In embodiments, a first detachable point 705 may connect afirst umbrella section 710 (e.g., a base section) to a second umbrellasection 715 (e.g, a lower section of a core assembly or supportassembly). In embodiments, a second detachable point 706 may connect asecond umbrella section 715 to a third umbrella section 720. Inembodiments, a third detachable point 707 may connect a third umbrellasection 720 to a fourth umbrella section 725. In embodiments, a fourthdetachable point 708 may connect a fourth umbrella section 725 to afifth umbrella section 730. In embodiments, this allows easy upgrade orinterchanging of assemblies and/or components for the different sectionsof the umbrella. For example, a fifth umbrella section 730 may be anexpansion assembly.

In order to detect detachment of different sections of an umbrella,parasol or shading system, a combination of magnets or magneticassemblies and magnetic sensors (e.g., magnetic field sensors or hallsensors) may be paired and aligned together at various detection points.Thus, if one section is detached from another section, a magnetic ormagnetic field sensor may not detect a magnetic field from the magnetand a magnetic field sensor may generate an error condition andcommunicate an error condition to one or more processors or controllersin an umbrella, parasol or shading system. In In embodiments, forexample, if a second umbrella section 715 is removed or detached from afirst umbrella section 710, a hall sensor 716 may detect the lack of themagnetic field generated from the magnet or magnetic assembly 717, andthe hall sensor 716 may generate a section detachment or error signal ormessage and communicate the section detachment or error signal ormessage to one or more controllers or processors in an umbrella, parasolor shading system. Similar operation can occur at the differentdetachment points (e.g., magnet 721 and magnetic field sensor 722 maydetect detachment at connection point 706; magnet 727 and hall sensor726 may detect detachment at connection point 707; magnetic assembly 731and hall sensor or magnetic field sensor 732 may detect detachment atconnection point 708). In embodiments, computer-readable instructionsexecutable by one or more processors and/or controllers may receive thedetachment or error signal or message and generate a notificationmessage or signal. In embodiments, computer-readable instructionsexecutable by one or more processors or controllers may communicate thenotification message or signal to a sound reproduction device (e.g., aspeaker); a mobile communication device (e.g., a display or speakerinstalled therein) and/or an external computing device (e.g., a displayor speaker installed therein). In embodiments, a top section at adetachment point may have a magnet or magnetic assembly and a bottomsection may have a hall sensor (or a magnetic field sensor) or viceversa (e.g., bottom section at a detachment has magnet or magneticassembly and top section has hall sensor).

Fan on Top of Tubular Assembly—FIG. 8A illustrates a cross-section of acore assembly or support assembly of an umbrella, parasol or shadingsystem including an interior fan assembly according to embodiments. FIG.8B illustrates a cross-section of a core assembly or support assembly ofan umbrella, parasol or shading system that includes a cooling system orapparatus of an umbrella, parasol or shading system according toembodiments. In embodiments, a section of an umbrella, parasol orshading system may comprise a cooling system. In embodiments, thesection may be a core section or housing, an expansion section orhousing, a support section or housing, or other umbrella, parasol orshading system sections. In embodiments, for example, as shown in FIG.8A, a core assembly or support assembly 800 may comprise a coolingsystem 802. In embodiments, a cooling system 802 may comprise one ormore fan assemblies 805 and 810, one or more internal temperaturesensors 815 and/or one or more vents 820 821. In embodiments, thisinternal temperature sensor 815 may be in addition to a temperaturesensor of an umbrella, parasol or shading system measuring externaltemperatures. In embodiments, an umbrella, parasol or shading system maycomprise a core assembly, wherein a core assembly or support assembly800 comprises a circular or cylindrical tubular assembly (or circulartube) in which components and/or assemblies are positioned or installed(e.g., intelligence housing or motor assembly). In embodiments, becausethese components may comprise integrated computing devices and/or motorassemblies or other printed circuit boards, heat may be generated insidea tubular assembly (or tube). In order for umbrellas, parasols orshading systems to operate efficiently or effectively, an intelligentumbrella, parasol or shading system may monitor temperatures inside atubular assembly utilizing one or more internal temperature sensors 815and generate internal temperature measurements. In embodiments, one ormore internal temperature sensors 815 may communicate generate internaltemperature measurements to one or more controllers or processors. Inembodiments, computer-readable instructions executable by one or morecontrollers or processors may generate and communicate commands,instructions, messages or signals to one or more fan blades of fanassemblies 805 or 810. In embodiments, one or more fan assemblies 805and/or 810 may be positioned inside a tubular assembly (e.g., coupled,adhered or connected to sides or inside surfaces of the tubularassemblies with an umbrella body, shading system or parasol). Inembodiments, one or more fan assemblies 805 or 810 may be positioned orinstalled near a top portion of a tubular assembly. In embodiments, atop portion of a tubular assembly may have an opening (e.g., an outsidesurface may have an opening or a top surface of a tubular assembly mayhave an opening or a vent (e.g., intake vent 807) may be present in atop portion of a tubular assembly and/or body of an umbrella). Inembodiments, air may be drawn into a tubular assembly or tube viaspinning and/or rotation of one or more fan assemblies 805 or 810. Inembodiments, rotation of one or more fan assemblies 805 and/or 810 maycomprise air to move through a tubular assembly (e.g., from top tobottom) as illustrated by air flow reference number 822. In embodiments,a bottom portion of a tubular assembly may comprise one or more vents820 and/or 821 to allow moved air to exit a tubular assembly. Inembodiments, this may reduce an internal temperature of a tubularassembly. In embodiments, fan assemblies 805 and/or 810 may be placed atdifferent or discrete vertical levels in a tubular assembly to improveair movement internally within the tubular assembly. In embodiments, asillustrated by FIG. 8B, a cooling assembly may comprise a liquid coolingassembly that may run down an inside surface and/or an outside surfaceof one or more tubular assemblies 800. In embodiments, a liquid coolingassembly may comprise tubing 840 or 841, a liquid reservoir 842, aliquid pump 843 and/or a refrigeration unit 844. In embodiments, aliquid may be present in a reservoir 843 and a refrigeration unit 844may cool liquid within a reservoir 842 (or may cool liquid as it entersa tubing assembly 800). In embodiments, a liquid pump 843 may drawliquid out of the reservoir 842 and pump the liquid (which has beencooled by the refrigeration unit 844) through one or more plastic tubinghoses 840 or 841 which are running down an inside surface of a tubularassembly. In embodiments, the cooled temperature of the liquid may causea surface of the plastic tubing to be reduced in temperature and thusreduce a temperature of a tubular assembly. In embodiments, a liquidcooling assembly may be continuously running in order to cool a tubularassembly. In embodiments, one or more temperature sensors 815 (asdescribed above) may monitor internal temperatures in a tubular assemblyand a refrigeration unit 844 and/or a pump assembly 843 may be activatedwhen a temperature measurement reaches a temperature threshold value (asis discussed above with respect to the fan assembly).

FIG. 9A illustrates a protective housing or shielding for one or morearm support assemblies and/or linking assemblies according toembodiments. In embodiments, an umbrella, parasol or shading system maycomprise a linkage protective housing 905 to hide and/or protect one ormore arm support assemblies, linking assemblies, or shading frames fromview and/or from damage from an environment. In embodiments, a linkageprotective housing 905 may also prevent operators or users (or theirclothing) from getting caught in the one or more arm support assemblies,linking assemblies and/or shading frames. In embodiments, a linkageprotecting housing 905 may comprise an upper housing 906 and/or lowerhousing 907. In embodiments, portions of arms or blades may resideoutside of linkage protective housing 905 and may rest on outsidesurfaces of the linkage protective housing. In embodiments, an upperhousing 906 may be connected via to a lower housing 907 via a fastener,screw, connector or an adhesive or combination thereof. In embodiments,a linkage protective housing 905 may be made or manufactured by additivemanufacturing techniques (or 3D printing). In embodiments, a linkageprotective housing 905 may be coupled, connected or adhered to anexpansion assembly, tubular assembly and/or shaft 903. FIG. 9Billustrates a linkage protective housing with a top housing removedaccording to embodiments. In embodiments, a sensor housing frame or 920may be connected to one or more arm support assembly, arm supportassembly frame or linking assembly 915. In embodiments, a sensor housingframe 920 may be connected to a linkage protective housing 905 (e.g., anupper housing 906). In embodiments, one or more arm support assembliesor frames or linking assemblies 915 may be coupled to an actuator,tubular assembly, shaft and/or or hinging assembly 903 in order todeploy the arms or blades to an expanded, deployed or open position. Inembodiments, one or more arm support assemblies or linking assembly 915may comprise one or more arm connectors 921 (e.g., holes or slots. Inembodiments, one or more associated arms may be connected to one or morearm support assemblies x15 utilizing one or more arm connectors 921(e.g., may be holes or slots). In embodiments, a bottom housing 907 maycomprise one or more arm/blades rests or recesses 925. In embodiments,an end portion of an arm/blade may be connected through two armconnectors 921 (e.g., inserted through holes or slots) and may beinstalled in or positioned in one or more (e.g., four in FIG. 9B)arm/blade rests or recesses 925. In embodiments, the linkage protectivehousing 905 prevents the linking assemblies and even portions of thearms/blades from being seen from user or operators, which presents asleeker design and provides safety benefits. In embodiments, one or morespeaker assemblies may be installed onto an outside surface of a linkageprotective housing 905. In embodiments, four speaker assemblies may beinstalled on an outside surface of a linkage protective housing 905 ormay be integrated into an outside surface of a linkage protectivehousing 905.

Many umbrellas, parasols and shading systems do not include detachableor separate arms or blades. Instead, they utilize frame systems and/orinterconnected ribs, where a shading fabric, such as nylon may beattached and/or connected to various points on the frame systems and/orinterconnected ribs. This leads to issues when a shading area needs tobe modified or changed and a user or operator is hindered by having apreexisting and non-modifiable umbrella, parasol or shading system. FIG.10A illustrates an umbrella, parasol or shading system with multiplearms or blades and/or one or more shading fabrics according toembodiments. FIG. 10B illustrates a side cross-section view of one ofthe arms or blades according to embodiments.

FIG. 10 A illustrates a top view of an umbrella, parasol or shadingsystem with arms/blades and shading fabric according to embodiments.FIG. 10A illustrates a top view of an umbrella, parasol or shadingsystem with four arms or blades assemblies (e.g., four arm/bladeconnectors 1007 and four arms/blades), one or more shading fabrics orshading fabric pieces 1010 and a center support assembly, linkingassembly or expansion support assembly 1015. In embodiments, one or moreshading fabrics or fabric pieces 1010 are connected or adhered betweentwo arms or blades assemblies (e.g., arm/blade connectors 1007 andarm/blades 1005). In embodiments, one or more arms or blade assemblies(e.g., arm/blade connectors 1007 and arm/blades 1005) are connectedand/or coupled to a center support assembly or expansion supportassembly 1015 through a linking assembly or hinging assembly.

FIG. 10B illustrates a block diagram of components in an arm or bladeassemblies according to embodiments. Prior art umbrellas, parasolsand/or shading systems may have lights or lighting assemblies hangingfrom ribs and/or frames and/or jutting out from umbrella ribs and/orframes. This may present a safety hazard if a tall person is underneaththe umbrella, parasol or shading system and lights or light assembliesare positioned too low. In addition, in many cases, when folding anumbrella, parasol or shading system, lights may have to be detached froma frame or rib, which is inconvenient. In addition, there is a risk oflight assemblies being damaged during installation or during movement ofthe umbrella, parasol or shading system. In embodiments, one or morelights or lighting assemblies 1020 may be integrated into an arm orblade assemblies (e.g., arm/blades 1005, although one or more lightingelements may be present in an arm/blade connector 1007). In embodiments,one or more lights or lighting assemblies 1020 may be integrated into abottom surface of an arm or blade assembly (e.g., arm/blades 1005). Inembodiments, one or more lighting assemblies 1020 may receive power fromone or more cables or wires 1030 from a solar charging assembly and/orrechargeable power source located within an umbrella, parasol or shadingsystem. In embodiments, one or more solar cells or solar panelassemblies may be integrated into an arm or blade assembly (e.g.,arm/blades 1005, although solar cells or solar panel assemblies may beintegrated into a top surface of an arm/blade connector 1007). Inembodiments, one or more solar cells or solar panel assemblies 1025 maybe adhered and/or fastened to a top surface of an arm or blade assembly(e.g., arm/blades 1005). In embodiments, one or more solar cells orsolar panel assemblies 1025 may provide power to one or more lightingassemblies 1020. In embodiments, a battery 1040 may provide power to oneor more lighting assemblies 1020. In embodiments, one or more wirelesscommunication transceivers 1035 may receive commands and/or instructionsfrom one or more controllers or processors in an umbrella, parasol orshading system to activate one or more lighting assemblies 1020. Inembodiments, upon receipt of commands and/or instructions, one or morewireless communication transceivers 1035 may communicate a signal orcommand to one or lighting assemblies 1020 to activate and/or deactivatethe one or more lighting assemblies 1020. In embodiments, acontroller/processor in an umbrella, parasol, shading system maycommunicate a command, instruction and/or signal a lighting assembly orlighting elements 1020 in an arm or blade assembly (e.g., arm/blades1005) via one or more cables and/or wires 1030.

In embodiments, umbrellas, parasols and/or shading systems may be invarious states of operation. In many cases, it may not be apparentwhether or not certain components or electrical assemblies areoperational or may be malfunctioning. In many cases, it may not bepossible for an umbrella, parasol or shading system to audibly identifythat certain assemblies are malfunctioning because the umbrellas,parasols, and/or shading systems may be outdoor and located in a noisyenvironment. In embodiments, an umbrella, parasol and/or shading systemmay utilize LED lighting assemblies to identify operating conditions ofthe device and/or operating conditions of components or assemblieswithin the umbrella, parasol and/or shading system. In addition, LEDlighting assemblies may be synchronized with an audio system so thatmusic playback may be coordinated with lighting assemblies. Inembodiments, for example, a certain LED (or LED assembly) lighting up oractivating may indicate that a specific component is malfunctioning. Inembodiments, a certain LED color may represent operational status ofspecific components (e.g., blue—component being initialized and/orcalibrated; green—component being operational; orange—component reachinga dangerous operating range or condition; red—component malfunctioning).In embodiments, LED assemblies may be located on various portions of anumbrella, parasol and/or shading system.

FIG. 11A illustrates a power button with a lighting element encirclingthe power button according to embodiments. FIG. 11B illustrates alighting element in a core assembly or support, where the lightingelement goes around or encircles a core assembly or central supportaccording to embodiments. FIG. 11C illustrates a plurality of lightingelements for an umbrella, parasol or shading system according toembodiments. In embodiments, a parasol, umbrella or shading system maycomprise a power button 1110 and one or more lighting elements 1105, asillustrated in FIG. 11A. In embodiments, when a parasol, umbrella orshading system is turned off, for example, one or more lighting elements1105 may be turned off. In embodiments, when a parasol, umbrella orshading system is turned off but in a sleep or low power mode, forexample, one or more lighting elements 1105 may have a muted intensityto indicate non-operation, but that the parasol, umbrella or shadingsystem may be in a ready-to-go mode or sleep mode, where an umbrella,parasol or shading system may have certain components or assembliespowered and operational but other components and/or assemblies in anon-operational state. In embodiments, one or lighting elements 1105 mayhave a higher intensity indicating that an umbrella, parasol or shadingsystem is operational and/or ready to do. Similarly, in FIG. 11B, one ormore lighting elements 1120 that encircles a core assembly 1122 may alsobe turned off, have a muted intensity, or be lit to full intensity toillustrate operational status of different components and/or assemblies.In embodiments, once a parasol, umbrella or shading system has beenactivated, one or more lighting elements 1105 (FIG. 11A) or lightingelement 1120 (FIG. 11B) may illuminate but appear to have the lightingelement or light ray circling the power button 1110 (e.g., in aclockwise or counterclockwise direction) or circling the core assembly1122 (e.g., in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction) to indicatethat 1) a shading system or umbrella is initiating operation (e.g.,turning on) or 2) performing an operation (e.g., executing voicerecognition, executing an artificial intelligence process, activatingone or more motor assemblies (e.g., azimuth motor, elevation motor,expansion motor). In embodiments, the one or more lighting elements 1105(FIG. 11A) or 1120 (FIG. 11B) may emit different colors of lights toindicate an operational status of an umbrella, parasol, and/or shadingsystem (e.g., initiating, configuring, operational, warning stage ormalfunctioning). In embodiments, the one or more lighting elements 1105(FIG. 11A) or 1120 (FIG. 11B) may emit different colors of lights toindicate certain components or assemblies or being utilized, configuredor initiated (e.g., blue indicates that AI or voice recognition is beingutilized; green indicates that wireless communication transceivers arebeing utilized; red indicates one or more motor assemblies are beingutilized) and thus a user or operator should be cautious because aparasol, umbrella and shading system may be in the process of moving.

FIG. 11C illustrates a logo that includes one or more lighting elementsthat may be utilized to indicate operational states of components orassemblies of an umbrella, parasol, and/or shading system. Inembodiments, a core assembly, support assembly or other section of anumbrella, parasol or shading system may comprise a number of lightingelements 1111, 1112, 1113, 1114, 1115, 1116, 1117 and/or 1118 formed ina logo, for example. In embodiments, this logo may be SHADECRAFT'sSUNFLOWER logo. In embodiments, for example, lighting elements 1111,1112, 1113, 1114, 1115, 1116, 1117 and/or 1118 may be illuminated in astaggered, timed, and/or delayed manner in a clockwise orcounterclockwise direction to identify operational states (e.g., turningon and/or performing an operation) of an umbrella, shading system orparasol. In embodiments, lighting elements 1111, 1112, 1113, 1114, 1115,1116, 1117 and/or 1118 may indicate that certain components, assembliesand/or devices are being utilized, are operational or aremalfunctioning. In embodiments, for example, lighting elements may beilluminated in a sequence (e.g., in a clockwise direction) from 1111 to1112 to 1113 to 1114 to 1115 to 1116 to 1117 to 1118 and continue untilan umbrella, parasol, or shading system is powered on, an operationalstate has changed, and/or an operation has completed. One or more colorsmay be utilized in such sequence. For example, once an umbrella system,parasol or shading system is turned on, the one or more lightingelements 1111, 1112, 1113, 1114, 1115, 1116, 1117 and/or 1118 may beilluminated sequentially in a clockwise direction until the umbrella,parasol or shading system is operational and ready. In embodiments, oneor more lighting elements 1111, 1112, 1113, 1114, 1115, 1116, 1117and/or 1118 may also be illuminated in a counterclockwise direction. Inembodiments, one or more lighting elements 1111, 1112, 1113, 1114, 1115,1116, 1117 and/or 1118 may be illuminated when an umbrella, parasolsystem is being powered down. FIG. 11D illustrates one or morearms/blades comprising one or more lighting elements or assembliesaccording to embodiments. In embodiments, similarly, one or morelighting elements 1140 or 1141-1144 and 1147-1148 in one or more arms orblades 1145 (see FIG. 11D) may also be illuminated (at once or in asequence) to identify that an umbrella, parasol and/or shading system isbeing activated or turned on and/or is completing an operation (asdiscussed above or below). In embodiments, illumination of one or morelighting assemblies 1140 or lighting elements 1141-1144 and 1147-1148 inone or more arms or blades 1145 may occur in addition to and/oralternatively to illumination of one or more lighting elements in a logo(see FIG. 11C), around a power button (see FIG. 11A) or around a coreassembly or support assembly (see FIG. 11B).

In embodiments, one or more lighting elements may have different colorsand/or intensities in order to indicate information about one or moreassemblies, components or devices in an umbrella, parasol or shadingsystem. In embodiments, this information may be operational states orstatus of a component, assembly or device and/or whether components,assemblies or devices of an umbrella, parasol or shading system arebeing utilized. In embodiments, for example as illustrated in FIG. 11C,one or more lighting elements may emit a blue light (e.g., 1113) toindicate that one or more PAN transceivers (or other wirelesscommunication transceivers) are being utilized. In embodiments, one orlight elements (e.g., 1116) may emit a red light to indicate that aproximity sensor is malfunctioning or generating an error reading. Inembodiments, one or more light elements (e.g., 1115) may emit an orangelight to indicate that artificial intelligence and/or voice recognitionis up and operational and/or being utilized. In embodiments, one or morelighting elements (e.g., 1117) may emit a green light to identify thatan imaging device is operational and/or being utilized. In embodiments,one or more lighting elements (e.g., 1112) may emit that a red light oryellow light to identify that motor assemblies are operational and/orbeing utilized in order to visually warn that these devices are beingutilized. In embodiments, one or more lighting elements (e.g., 1111) mayemit a yellow light identifying that an integrated computing device isoperational and/or being utilized. In embodiments, a user or operatormay set up different lighting elements 1111-1118 to identify operationalstatus for different components or assemblies of an umbrella, a parasoland/or a shading system. In embodiments, for example, lighting elements1111-1118 may be preassigned to different assemblies and/or componentsor devices in an umbrella, parasol and/or shading system. Inembodiments, for example, lighting element 1111 may be assigned todisplay operational status of an integrated computing device; lightingelement 1112 may be assigned to display operational status of artificialintelligence or voice recognition in an umbrella, parasol and/or shadingsystem; lighting element 1113 may be assigned to display operationalstatus of a personal area network transceiver; lighting element 1114 maybe assigned to display operational status of a local area networktransceiver (or WiFi transceiver); lighting element 1115 may be assignedto display operational status of a cellular transceiver; lightingelement 1116 may be assigned to display operational status of one ormore motor assemblies; lighting element 1117 may be assigned to displayoperational status of one or more imaging devices; and/or lightingelement 1118 may be assigned to display operational status of proximitysensors.

In embodiments, as shown in FIG. 11C, a parasol, umbrella and/or shadingsystem may have eight lighting elements 1111-1118. However, theinventions equally apply to parasols, umbrellas or shading systems thathave more or less lighting elements (e.g., 2, 4, 15, 16, 24 or 30), eachwhich can be assigned to different individual components and/orassemblies, so that operational status may be displayed and/or shown forany number of individual components or assemblies. In embodiments, anattachment may be mechanically and/or magnetically connected to a coreassembly, a support assembly and/or a base assembly according toembodiments. FIG. 11B illustrates an attachment comprising one or morelighting elements. In embodiments, an attachment 1130 may comprise oneor more lighting elements 1135. In embodiment, FIG. 11B illustrates twolighting elements 1135, however, as discussed above, one or morelighting elements may be utilized in an attachment 1130. In embodiments,pogo pins may allow attachment or connection of an attachment 1130 to acore assembly or support assembly 1122, expansion assembly, cover orprotection assembly and/or base assembly. In embodiments, an attachment1130 may be connected, adhered, fastened, and/or coupled to a coreassembly or support assembly 1122, expansion assembly, cover orprotection assembly and/or base assembly. In embodiments, the attachment1130 may thus be attached and/or detached at a number of locations on anumbrella, parasol or shading system to allow a user to visually seeoperational status of a number of functions, or components and/orassemblies from a different number of views. In embodiments, a user caninitiate visual indication processes or methods via voice commands. Inembodiments, voice recognition and AI engines may receive voice commandsand as described in SHADECRAFT patent applications, may communicate withnecessary components and/or assemblies to cause a lighting sequence ordisplay to be initiated, started and/or stopping. Thus, in embodiments,an umbrella, parasol or shading system may have three or four connectionareas and may utilized connectors and/or fasteners (e.g., pogo pins,magnets, fasteners, snaps) and thus an attachment 1130 may be moved todifferent areas based on positions of users and/or operators. Inembodiments, although lighting elements are discussed therein, LEDnumeral assemblies or display assemblies may also be attached todifferent areas of an umbrella, parasol or shading system and visuallydisplay operational status of many components and/or assemblies(utilizing numeral displays and/or alphanumeric displays).

FIG. 11E illustrates a flowchart of initiating operation of one or morelighting assemblies in an umbrella, parasol or shading system accordingto embodiments. In embodiments, an umbrella, parasol or shading systemmay comprise a computing device. In embodiments, a computing device maycomprise one or more processors, one or more memory devices andcomputer-readable instructions executable stored in the one or morememory devices. In embodiments, the computer-readable instructions maybe executed by the one or more processors to perform actions or stepssuch as those detailed below in FIG. 11E. In embodiments, the steps oractions may be performed in different sequences than those set forth inFIG. 11E. In embodiments, a method of initiating an umbrella, parasol orshading system operational status may be started in a variety offashions. In embodiments, a user may speak a command into one or moremicrophones and voice recognition software may analyze 1155 the voicecommand and generate a corresponding command or instruction based atleast in part on the received voice command. Alternatively, inembodiments, a user or operator may press a button or switch 1156 on anumbrella, parasol or shading system in order to activate a lightingelement operational status process. Alternatively, or in addition to, inembodiments, an umbrella, parasol or shading system may receive acommand from an external computing device (e.g., a mobile computingdevice, such as a smartphone) that requests 1157 that a lighting elementoperational status be initiated. In embodiments, computer-readableinstructions executable by one or more processors may receive 1158 voicecommands, a start command from a button or switch or external computingdevice commands and may analyze these commands or instructions, and maygenerate initial lighting element commands, instructions, signals ormessages. In embodiments, computer-readable instructions executable byone or more processors may communicate the generated initial lightingelement commands, instructions, signals or messages to one or morelighting elements in an umbrella, parasol or shading system. Inembodiments, the one or more lighting elements may receive 1159 theinitial lighting element commands, instructions, signals or messages andmay illuminate the one or more lighting elements based at least in parton the received initial lighting element commands, instructions, signalsor messages. In embodiments, as discussed previously, the one or morelighting elements may be illuminated in different intensities, differentcolors, to project a certain pattern or a certain effect. Inembodiments, computer-readable instructions executable by one or moreprocessors may communicate status requests 1160 to components of anumbrella, parasol or shading system (e.g., computing device, sensors,cameras, detectors, solar panels or solar chargers) and/or assemblies ofan umbrella, parasol or shading system (e.g., an elevation motorassembly, an azimuth motor assembly, and/or an expansion motor assembly)to determine operational stats of the components and/or assemblies. Inembodiments, components and/or assemblies of the umbrella, parasol orshading system may generate status indicators, messages or results andmay communicate the status indicators, messages or results. Inembodiments, computer-readable instructions executable by one or moreprocessors may receive and analyze 1161 the status results, indicatorsand/or messages from the umbrella, parasol, or shading system componentsor assemblies. In embodiments, computer-readable instructions executableby one or more processors may generate and communicate 1162 updated orrevised lighting element commands, instructions, signals or messages,based at least in part on the received status results, indicators ormessages. In embodiments, the one or more lighting elements may receiveupdated or revised lighting element commands, instructions, signals ormessages and may illuminate the one or more lighting elements based atleast in part on the revised lighting element commands, instructions,signals or messages. In embodiments, this process may continue to occuruntil an operator requests that the lighting element operational statusbe stopped, a start-up sequence has ended, the umbrella, parasol orshading system is turned off, or computer-readable instructions executedby a processors receives a command from an external computing device. Inthe lighting element operational status continues to operate,computer-readable instructions executable by one or more processors maycommunicate status requests 1160 to components and/or assemblies of theumbrella, parasol or shading system at predetermined timeframes (e.g.,every minute, every 10 minutes and/or every hour) although any timing ispossible. In embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 11E, the process mayreturn to step 1160 (e.g., communicating status requests). Inembodiments, a lighting element operational status process may also beautomatically invoked at certain periods of the day or when certainenvironmental conditions occur. In embodiments, for example, ifenvironmental sensor thresholds are reached, commands and/orinstructions may be communicated to begin execution of computer-readableinstructions by the processor to initiate determination of operationalstatus or an umbrella, parasol or shading system and to visually providestatus indicators through the one or more lighting elements bycommunicating light element commands, signals, instructions or messagesto the one or more lighting elements. In embodiments, lighting elementsmay be light bulbs, LED lights, fluorescent lights, light tape, lightlayers of material and/or light paint.

In embodiments, an umbrella includes one or more lighting elements, oneor more motor assemblies, one or more electrical components and anintegrated computing device. In embodiments, the integrated computingdevice includes one or more processors, one or more physical memorydevices, and computer-readable instructions stored in the one or morephysical memory devices. The computer-readable instructions executed bythe one or more processors may receive status message or signals fromthe one or more motor assemblies or the one or more electricalcomponents; 2) generate light element commands, instructions, messagesor signals based, at least in part, on the received status messages orsignals; and 3) communicate the generated light elements commands,instructions, messages or signals to the one or more lighting elementsto indicate status of the one or more motor assemblies or one or moreelectrical components. The computer-readable instructions executed bythe one or more processors may receive status messages from theintegrated computing device identifying operational status of theintegrated computing device and generate light element commands,instructions, messages or signals based, at least in part, on thereceived status messages or signals; and communicate the generated lightelements commands, instructions, messages or signals to the one or morelighting elements to indicate status of the integrated computing device.In embodiments, the one or more motor assemblies comprising azimuthmotor assembly, an elevation motor assembly or an expansion motorassembly. In embodiments, the status messages may indicate whether theone or more electrical components or the computing device is turned off,initializing, activated or malfunctioning. In embodiments, the one ormore electrical components may comprise one or more wirelesstransceivers, one or more environmental sensors, an audio transceiver,one or more proximity sensors, one or more cameras, or one or moredirectional sensors. In embodiments, the computer-readable instructionsmay be executable by the one or more processors to 1) receive statusmessages from an artificial intelligence process identifying operationalof the artificial intelligence process; 2) generate light elementcommands, instructions, messages or signals based, at least in part, onthe received status messages or signals regarding the artificialintelligence process; and 3) communicate the generated light elementscommands, instructions, messages or signals to the one or more lightingelements to indicate status of the artificial intelligence

In embodiments, an umbrella may include one or more lighting elements;and an integrated computing device, where the integrated computingdevice includes one or more processors, one or more physical memorydevices, and computer-readable instructions stored in the one or morephysical memory devices. In embodiments, the computer-readableinstructions may be executable by the one or more processors to 1)receive audio files, the received audio files based at least in part onvoice commands received by one or more microphones, 2) perform anartificial intelligence process based at least in part on the receivedaudio files, 3) monitor status of the artificial intelligence processand receive status messages with respect to the artificial intelligenceprocess, 4) generate light element messages, commands or instructionsregarding the status of the artificial intelligence processor; and 5)communicate the light element messages, commands or instructions to theone or more lighting elements.

In embodiments, an umbrella may include a first lighting element, asecond lighting element, a first electrical component where the firstlighting element is associated with a status of the first electricalcomponent, a second electrical component where the second lightingelement associated with a status of the second electrical component; andan integrated computing device. The integrated computing device mayinclude one or more processors, one or more physical memory devices, andcomputer-readable instructions stored in the one or more physical memorydevices, the computer-readable instructions being executable by the oneor more processors. The computer-readable instructions may be executableby the one or more processors to 1) receive first status message orsignals from the first electrical component; 2) receive second statusmessage or signals from the second electrical component; 3) generatefirst light element commands, instructions, messages or signals based,at least in part, on the received first status messages or signals andcommunicate the generated first light element commands, instructions,messages or signals to the first light element; and 4) generate secondlight element commands, instructions, messages or signals based, atleast in part, on the received second status messages or signals andcommunicate the generated second light element commands, instructions,messages or signals to the second light element. In embodiments, theumbrella further includes a third lighting element, and a first motorassembly, the third lighting element associated with a status of thefirst motor assembly, wherein the computer-readable instructions areexecutable by the one or more processors to receive third status messageor signals from the first motor assembly and generate third lightelement commands, instructions, messages or signals based, at least inpart, on the received third status messages or signals and communicatethe generated third light element commands, instructions, messages orsignals to the third light element. In embodiments, the umbrella,parasol and shading system further includes a third lighting element,the third lighting element associated with a status of the integratedcomputing device, wherein the computer-readable instructions are furtherexecutable by the one or more processors to 1) receive third statusmessage or signals from the integrated computing device; and 2) generatethird light element commands, instructions, messages or signals based,at least in part, on the received third status messages or signals fromthe integrated computing device, and communicate the generated thirdlight element commands, instructions, messages or signals to the thirdlight element. In embodiments, one electrical component may be awireless transceiver and a second electrical component may be a sensor.In embodiments, the first motor assembly may an azimuth motor assembly,an elevation motor assembly or an expansion motor assembly. Inembodiments, the status message received from the first electricalcomponent or mechanical assembly indicates an operational status ofpowered-off, initiating, activated or malfunctioning. In embodiments,the first light element may illuminate in more than one color or morethan one intensity, the more than one color corresponding to anoperational state of the first electrical component, wherein thecomputer-readable instructions are further executable by the one or moreprocessors to generate the first light element commands, instructions,messages or signals, based, at least in part on the operational statusof the first electrical component, wherein the first light elementcommands, instructions, messages or signals cause the first lightelement to illuminate in a color or illumination intensity correspondingto the received operational status.

In embodiments, one or more speakers or sound reproduction devices maybe placed at different areas of an umbrella, parasol or shading systemand may audibly communicate operational status of functions, componentsand/or assemblies to users and/or operators. In embodiments, forexample, a speaker and/or sound reproduction device may identify thatartificial intelligence is being utilized and/or is operational, that anintegrated computing device is available for use, that WiFi connectivityis available and that one or more imaging devices may be operationaland/or transmitting images. Thus, lighting elements may be placed on anattachment and the attachment's lighting element may show operationalstatus of an umbrella, parasol or shading system.

FIG. 12 illustrates a block diagram of an umbrella, parasol or shadingsystem playing coordinated music and lighting element according toembodiments. In embodiments, a synchronized music playing system in anumbrella, parasol, or shading system may comprise one or more wirelesstransceivers 1215, one or more amplifiers 1220, one or more speakers1225 1226, one or more controllers/processors 1230 and one or morelighting elements or lighting assemblies 1235 1236. In embodiments, adigital music source may communicate digital music files to a parasol,umbrella or shading system comprising a synchronized music playingsystem. In embodiments, a digital music source may comprise a mobilecommunications device 1200, an audio receiver 1210 and a remotecomputing device 1205. In embodiments, the digital music source 1200,1205 or 1210 may communicate digital music files to a wirelesstransceiver 1215 (e.g., a PAN transceiver such as a Bluetooth or Zigbeetransceiver; a WiFi transceiver or a cellular transceiver). Inembodiments, a wireless transceiver 1215 may also comprise a ULE or DECTtransceiver. In embodiments, a wireless transceiver 1215 may communicatedigital music files to one or more amplifiers 1220. In embodiments, theone or more amplifiers 1220 may communicate or transfer the receiveddigital music files to the one or more speakers 1225 or 1226.Simultaneously to the transfer of digital music files to the one or moreamplifiers, the wireless transceiver 1215 communicates the digital musicfiles and/or music characteristics (e.g., frequency and/or intensitycharacteristics) to one or more processors or controllers 1230. Inembodiments, computer-readable instructions executable by the one ormore controller or processors 1230 may i) analyze the digital musicfiles and/or music characteristics, ii) determine light sequencingcharacteristics, light frequency characteristics, light intensitycharacteristics and/or light color characteristics; and iii) communicatelighting sequencing characteristics, light frequency characteristics,and light intensity characteristics to the one or light assemblies 1235and 1236 to control illumination of the one or more lighting assembliesor lighting elements 1235 (and specifically intensity, frequency,sequencing or color characteristics). In embodiments, this results inmusic playing via speakers which is coordinated with the illuminationand activation of lighting elements in a synchronized manner.

FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrates a block diagram of a modular umbrellasystem according to embodiments. In embodiments, as is illustrated inFIG. 13A, a modular umbrella shading system 1300 may comprise atelemetry printed circuit board (PCB) comprising a processor 1305, aweather variable PCB comprising a processor 1310, a voice recognitionPCB and/or engine 1315, a rechargeable battery 1320, and one or moresolar panels and/or solar panel arrays 1325. In embodiments, a modularumbrella shading system 1300 may comprise a power tracking solar charger1330, a power input or power source (e.g., AC adapter assembly) 1335, alighting assembly 1370, an audio system 1375 and/or a computing device1360. In embodiments, a modular umbrella shading system may include anobstacle detection module 1355, a motion sensor 1345, a proximity sensor1340, a tilt sensor 1355, a personal area network communications moduleor transceiver 1365, a first motor controller and motor (azimuth motorand controller) 1380, a second motor controller and motor (elevationmotor and controller) 1385, and a third motor controller and motor (anactuator motor and controller) 1390. In embodiments, a weather variablePCB 1310 may be coupled and/or connected to one or more air qualitysensors 1311, UV radiation sensors 1312, a digital barometer sensor1313, a temperature sensor 1314, a humidity sensor 1316, and/or a windspeed sensor 1317. In embodiments, a wind sensor 1317 may be athermistor. In embodiments, a telemetry PCB 1305 may be coupled and/orconnected to a GPS/GNSS sensor 1307 and/or a digital compass 1308.Although at times a modular umbrella shading system, shading object,intelligent umbrella and/or shading charging system may singularly bementioned, the disclosure herein may be implemented in any of theabove-mentioned devices and/or apparatus.

In embodiments, a modular umbrella shading system may comprise one ormore printed circuit boards. Although a description may reference aspecific printed circuit board, many of features or functions of amodular umbrella shading system may be implemented utilizing componentsmounted on a single, two or three circuit boards. In addition, one ormore components may be mounted on printed circuit boards, which resultsin a large number of circuit boards within a modular umbrella shadingsystem. In other words, a number of circuit boards may be utilized toprovide features and/or functions of a shading object and/or umbrellaalthough embodiments described herein may only describe a specificnumber. Although the term “circuit board” or “printed circuit board” isutilized, any electronic device allowing installation on and communicatewith components may be utilized along with circuit board. As used inthis specification, the terms “printed circuit board” and “PCB” areintended to refer generally to any structure used to mechanicallysupport and electrically connect electronic components using conductivepathways, tracks, or signal traces etched from (e.g., copper) sheetslaminated onto a non-conductive substrate. Synonyms for printed circuitboards include printed wiring boards and etched wiring boards.

In embodiments, a shading object, umbrella and/or shading chargingsystem may comprise one or more printed circuit boards. In embodiments,a shading object or umbrella 1300 may comprise a movement control PCB1395, a shading object computing device or computing device PCB 1360, afirst motor PCB (azimuth control) 1380, a second motor PCB (elevationcontrol) 1385, a third motor PCB (actuation/deployment control) 1390, atelemetry PCB (location and orientation data/information collection)1305, and/or a weather variable PCB (environmental sensordata/information collection) 1310. Descriptions of the variouscomponents, boards, assemblies, computing devices, devices listed abovemay be found in application Ser. No. 15/394,080, filed Dec. 29, 2016,filed Dec. 29, 2016, entitled “Modular Umbrella Shading System,” andapplication Ser. No. 15/418,380, filed Jan. 27, 2017, entitled “ShadingSystem with Artificial Intelligence Application Programming Interface,the disclosures of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

FIG. 14 illustrates a shading object or umbrella integrated computingdevice in a modular umbrella system according to embodiments. Inembodiments, an integrated computing device PCB 1400 may comprise awireless WiFi or LAN wireless transceiver 1410 (which may or may notoperate as a wireless hotspot and/or router), a separate wirelesshotspot device 1415, one or more audio/video transceivers 1420 (e.g.,PAN transceivers), one or more processors 1425, one or more non-volatilememories 1430 and one or more memory components 1435. In embodiments,many of the components may reside on a computing device PCB. Inembodiments, a separate PCB may house or have some of the above-listedcomponents (e.g., local area network or WiFi transceiver 1410, wirelesshotspot device 1415) mounted thereon and a shading object computingdevice may comprise non-volatile memory 1430 (e.g., a flash drive, ahard drive, a removable disk drive), and a volatile memory 1435 such asRAM, and on or more processors 1425. Descriptions of the variouscomponents, boards, assemblies, computing devices, devices listed abovemay be found in application Ser. No. 15/394,080, filed Dec. 29, 2016,filed Dec. 29, 2016, entitled “Modular Umbrella Shading System,” andapplication Ser. No. 15/418,380, filed Jan. 27, 2017, entitled “ShadingSystem with Artificial Intelligence Application Programming Interface,the disclosures of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

In embodiments, an integrated computing device 1400 may store and/orexecute shading object or umbrella application software, which may bereferred to as SMARTSHADE and/or SHADECRAFT application software. Inembodiments, shading object or umbrella application software may be runand/or executed on a variety of computing devices including a computingdevice integrated within a shading object or umbrella. In embodiments,for example, shading object or modular umbrella application software mayinclude computer-readable instructions being stored in non-volatilememories of a computing device, a portable electronic device (e.g., asmart phone and/or a tablet), an application server, and/or a webapplication server, all which interact and communicate with each other.In embodiments, computer-readable instructions may be retrieved frommemories (e.g., non-volatile memories) of these above-identifiedcomputing devices, loaded into volatile memories and executed byprocessors in the computing device, portable electronic device,application server, and/or mobile application server. In embodiments, auser interface (and/or graphical user interface) for a modular umbrellasoftware application may be presented on a portable electronic device,although other computing devices could also execute instructions andpresent a graphical user interface (e.g., dashboard) to an individual.In embodiments, modular umbrella application software may generateand/or display a dashboard with different application (e.g., process)selections (e.g., weather, health, storage, energy, security processesand/or application processes). In embodiments, modular umbrellaapplication software may control operation of a modular umbrella,communicate with and receive communications from modular umbrellaassemblies and/or components, analyze information obtained by assembliesand/or components of a modular umbrella, integrate with existing homeand/or commercial software systems, and/or store personal data generatedby the modular umbrella, and communicate with external devices.

In embodiments, a portable electronic device may also comprise a mobileapplication stored in a non-volatile memory. In embodiments, a mobileapplication may be referred to as a SHADECRAFT or a SMARTSHADE mobileapplication. In embodiments, a mobile application (mobile app) maycomprise instructions stored in a non-volatile memory of a portableelectronic device, which can be executed by a processor of a portableelectronic device to perform specific functionality. In embodiments,this functionality may be controlling of, interacting with, and/orcommunicating with a shading object. In embodiments, mobile apps mayprovide users with similar services to those accessed and may beindividual software units with limited or specific function. Inembodiments, applications may be available for download from mobileapplication stores, such as Apple's App Store. In embodiments, mobileapps may be known as an app, a Web app, an online app, an iPhone app ora smartphone app. In embodiments, a sensor device (or other IoT device)may communicate to a server computing device via a cellularcommunications network, a wireless communication network, a wiredcommunication network and/or other communication network. Inembodiments, a sensor device and/or assembly device may capture sensormeasurements, data and/or conditions and may communicate sensormeasurements, data and/or conditions to an IoT enabled server, which mayanalyze, store, route, process and/or communicate such sensormeasurements, data and/or conditions. In embodiments, an Internet ofThings (IoT) may be a network of physical objects—sensors, devices,vehicles, buildings, and other electronic devices. In embodiments, theIoT may sense and/or control objects across existing wirelesscommunication network infrastructure, an existing cellular communicationnetwork, and/or a global communications network infrastructure. Inembodiments, integrating of devices via IoT may create opportunities formore direct integration of a physical world into computer-based systems,which may result in improved efficiency, accuracy and economic benefit.In addition, when an IoT device or server is augmented with sensors andactuators, IoT may be integrated or enabled with a more general class ofcyber-physical systems, e.g., smart grids, smart homes, intelligenttransportation and smart cities. In embodiments, in IoT, for example,may be uniquely identifiable through its embedded computing system butis able to interoperate within the existing Internet infrastructure. Inembodiments, a device may have a specific IP address in order to beaddressed by other IoT enabled systems and/or devices. In embodiments,an IP address may be provided and/or established by routers and/orInternet service providers. For example, a modular umbrella enabled withIoT capability, because it may incorporate cameras, may be able tocommunicate with or be integrated into a home or office security system.Further, if an individual has a smart home, an individual may be able tocontrol operation of, or communicate with a modular umbrella shadingsystem as part of an existing smart home software application (eithervia a smart phone, mobile communication device, tablet, and/orcomputer). In addition, a modular umbrella shading system, if part ofIoT, may be able to interface with, communicate with and interact withan existing home security system. Likewise, a modular umbrella shadingsystem may be able to be an additional sound reproduction device (e.g.,via speaker(s)) for a home audio and/or video system that is also on theIoT. In addition, a modular umbrella system may be able to integrateitself with an electronic calendar (stored on a computing device) andbecome part of a notification or alarm system because it will identifywhen upcoming meetings are occurring.

In embodiments, a modular umbrella system may be a device on an Internetof Things (IoT). In embodiments, an IoT-enabled device may be one ormore cameras, one or more environmental sensors, one or more directionalsensors, one or more movement sensors, one or more motor assemblies, oneor more lighting assemblies and/or one or more solar panels or cells.These objects and/or IoT-enabled devices may comprise items and/ordevice may be embedded with electronics, software, sensors, and networkconnectivity, which enables these physical objects to detect, collect,process and/or exchange data with each other and/or with computingdevices, Shadecraft IoT-enabled servers, and/or third-party IoT enabledservers connected to a modular umbrella system via a globalcommunications network (e.g., an Internet).

In embodiments, IoT devices (e.g., servers, sensors, appliances, motorassemblies, outdoor shading systems, cameras, lighting assemblies,microphones, computing devices, etc.) may communicate with each otherutilizing an Internet Protocol Suite. In embodiments, IoT devices may beassigned an IP address and may utilize IPv6 communication protocol. Inembodiments where security is important, authentication may beestablished utilizing OAUTH (e.g., version 2.0) and Open ID Connectprotocols (e.g., version 1.0). In addition, in embodiments, the IEEE802.15.4 radio standard may allow for reduction in power consumption byIoT devices utilizing RF communications. In embodiments where powerconsumption may need to be decreased, e.g., as in sensors, modularumbrella shading systems, shading systems, cameras, processors),communication with IoT devices may utilize Message Queuing TelemetryTransport (MQTT) which utilizes TCP for its transport layer and utilizesa central MQTT broker to manage and/or route messages among a MQTTnetwork's nodes. In embodiments, communication with IoT devices mayutilize Constrained Application Protocol (CoAP) which utilizes UDP asits transport protocol. In embodiments, CoAP may be a client/serverprotocol and allows a one-to-one report/request instruction model. Inembodiments, CoAP also may have accommodations for multi-casttransmission of messages (e.g., one-to-many report/request instructionmodel).

Non-volatile storage medium/media is a computer readable storagemedium(s) that can be used to store software and data, e.g., anoperating system, system programs, device drivers, and one or moreapplication programs, in a computing device or one or more memorydevices of a balcony shading and power system processor, controllerand/or computing device. Persistent storage medium/media also be used tostore device drivers, (such as one or more of a digital camera driver,motor drivers, speaker drivers, scanner driver, or other hardware devicedrivers), web pages, content files, metadata, playlists, data capturedfrom one or more assemblies or components (e.g., sensors, cameras, motorassemblies, microphones, audio and/or video reproduction systems) andother files. Non-volatile storage medium/media can further includeprogram modules/program logic in accordance with embodiments describedherein and data files used to implement one or more embodiments of thepresent disclosure.

A computing device or a processor or controller may include or mayexecute a variety of operating systems, including a personal computeroperating system, such as a Windows, iOS or Linux, or a mobile operatingsystem, such as iOS, Android, or Windows Mobile, Windows Phone, GooglePhone, Amazon Phone, or the like. A computing device, or a processor orcontroller in a balcony shading and power system controller may includeor may execute a variety of possible applications, such as a softwareapplications enabling communication with other devices, such ascommunicating one or more messages such as via email, short messageservice (SMS), or multimedia message service (MMS), FTP, or other filesharing programs, including via a network, such as a social network,including, for example, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Flickr, or Google+and/or Instagram provide only a few possible examples. A computingdevice or a processor or controller in a balcony shading and powersystem may also include or execute an application to communicatecontent, such as, for example, textual content, multimedia content, orthe like. A computing device or a processor or controller in a balconyshading and power system may also include or execute an application toperform a variety of possible tasks, such as browsing, searching,playing various forms of content, including locally stored or streamedcontent. The foregoing is provided to illustrate that claimed subjectmatter is intended to include a wide range of possible features orcapabilities. A computing device or a processor or controller in abalcony shading and power system and/or mobile computing device may alsoinclude imaging software applications for capturing, processing,modifying and transmitting image, video and/or sound files utilizing theoptical device (e.g., camera, scanner, optical reader) within a mobilecomputing device and/or a balcony shading and power system.

For the purposes of this disclosure a computer readable medium storescomputer data, which data can include computer program code that isexecutable by a computer, in machine-readable form. By way of example,and not limitation, a computer-readable medium may comprise computerreadable storage media, for tangible or fixed storage of data, orcommunication media for transient interpretation of code-containingsignals. Computer readable storage media, as used herein, refers tophysical or tangible storage (as opposed to signals) and includeswithout limitation volatile and non-volatile, removable andnon-removable media implemented in any method or technology for thetangible storage of information such as computer-readable instructions,data structures, program modules or other data. Computer readablestorage media includes, but is not limited to, DRAM, DDRAM, RAM, ROM,EPROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other solid state memory technology,CD-ROM, DVD, or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetictape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or anyother physical or material medium which can be used to tangibly storethe desired information or data or instructions and which can beaccessed by a computer or processor.

For the purposes of this disclosure a system or module is a software,hardware, or firmware (or combinations thereof), process orfunctionality, or component thereof, that performs or facilitates theprocesses, features, and/or functions described herein (with or withouthuman interaction or augmentation). A module can include sub-modules.Software components of a module may be stored on a computer readablemedium. Modules may be integral to one or more servers, or be loaded andexecuted by one or more servers. One or more modules may be grouped intoan engine or an application.

Those skilled in the art will recognize that the methods and systems ofthe present disclosure may be implemented in many manners and as suchare not to be limited by the foregoing exemplary embodiments andexamples. In other words, functional elements being performed by singleor multiple components, in various combinations of hardware and softwareor firmware, and individual functions, may be distributed among softwareapplications at either the client or server or both. In this regard, anynumber of the features of the different embodiments described herein maybe combined into single or multiple embodiments, and alternateembodiments having fewer than, or more than, all of the featuresdescribed herein are possible. Functionality may also be, in whole or inpart, distributed among multiple components, in manners now known or tobecome known. Thus, myriad software/hardware/firmware combinations arepossible in achieving the functions, features, interfaces andpreferences described herein. Moreover, the scope of the presentdisclosure covers conventionally known manners for carrying out thedescribed features and functions and interfaces, as well as thosevariations and modifications that may be made to the hardware orsoftware or firmware components described herein as would be understoodby those skilled in the art now and hereafter.

While certain exemplary techniques have been described and shown hereinusing various methods and systems, it should be understood by thoseskilled in the art that various other modifications may be made, andequivalents may be substituted, without departing from claimed subjectmatter. Additionally, many modifications may be made to adapt aparticular situation to the teachings of claimed subject matter withoutdeparting from the central concept described herein. Therefore, it isintended that claimed subject matter not be limited to the particularexamples disclosed, but that such claimed subject matter may alsoinclude all implementations falling within the scope of the appendedclaims, and equivalents thereof.

The invention claimed is:
 1. An umbrella, comprising: one or morelighting elements; one or more motor assemblies; one or more electricalcomponents; an integrated computing device, the integrated computingdevice comprising: one or more processors; one or more physical memorydevices, computer-readable instructions stored in the one or morephysical memory devices, the computer-readable instructions beingexecutable by the one or more processors to: receive status message orsignals from the one or more motor assemblies or the one or moreelectrical components and from an artificial intelligence processidentifying operational status of the artificial intelligence process;generate light element commands, instructions, messages or signalsbased, at least in part, on the received status messages or signalsregarding the artificial intelligence process; and communicate thegenerated light elements commands, instructions, messages or signals tothe one or more lighting elements to indicate status of the one or moremotor assemblies or one or more electrical components and the artificialintelligence process.
 2. An umbrella, comprising: one or more lightingelements; and an integrated computing device, the integrated computingdevice comprising: one or more processors; one or more physical memorydevices, computer-readable instructions stored in the one or morephysical memory devices, the computer-readable instructions beingexecutable by the one or more processors to: receive audio files, thereceived audio files based at least in part on voice commands receivedby one or more microphones; perform an artificial intelligence processbased at least in part on the received audio files; monitor status ofthe artificial intelligence process and receive status messages withrespect to the artificial intelligence process; generate light elementmessages, commands or instructions regarding the status of theartificial intelligence process; and communicate the light elementmessages, commands or instructions to the one or more lighting elements.3. An umbrella, comprising: a first lighting element; a second lightingelement; a first electrical component, the first lighting elementassociated with a status of the first electrical component; a secondelectrical component, the second lighting element associated with astatus of the second electrical component; and an integrated computingdevice, the integrated computing device comprising: one or moreprocessors; one or more physical memory devices, computer-readableinstructions stored in the one or more physical memory devices, thecomputer-readable instructions being executable by the one or moreprocessors to: receive first status message or signals from the firstelectrical component; receive second status message or signals from thesecond electrical component; generate first light element commands,instructions, messages or signals based, at least in part, on thereceived first status messages or signals and communicate the generatedfirst light element commands, instructions, messages or signals to thefirst light element; and generate second light element commands,instructions, messages or signals based, at least in part, on thereceived second status messages or signals and communicate the generatedsecond light element commands, instructions, messages or signals to thesecond light element.
 4. The umbrella of claim 3, further comprising: athird lighting element; and a first motor assembly, the third lightingelement associated with a status of the first motor assembly; whereinthe computer-readable instructions are further executable by the one ormore processors to: receive third status message or signals from thefirst motor assembly; and generate third light element commands,instructions, messages or signals based, at least in part, on thereceived third status messages or signals and communicate the generatedthird light element commands, instructions, messages or signals to thethird light element.
 5. The umbrella of claim 3, further comprising: athird lighting element, the third lighting element associated with astatus of the integrated computing device, wherein the computer-readableinstructions are further executable by the one or more processors to:receive third status message or signals from the integrated computingdevice; and generate third light element commands, instructions,messages or signals based, at least in part, on the received thirdstatus messages or signals from the integrated computing device, andcommunicate the generated third light element commands, instructions,messages or signals to the third light element.
 6. The umbrella of claim3, wherein the first electrical component is a wireless transceiver andthe second electrical component is a sensor.
 7. The umbrella of claim 4,wherein the first motor assembly is an azimuth motor assembly, anelevation motor assembly or an expansion motor assembly.
 8. The umbrellaof claim 3, wherein the status message received from the firstelectrical component indicates an operational status of the firstelectrical component, the operational status being not activated,initiating, activated or malfunctioning.
 9. The umbrella of claim 8,wherein the first light element may illuminate in more than one color,the more than one colors corresponding to an operational state of thefirst electrical component, and wherein the computer-readableinstructions are further executable by the one or more processors to:generate the first light element commands, instructions, messages orsignals, based, at least in part on the operational status of the firstelectrical component, wherein the first light element commands,instructions, messages or signals cause the first light element toilluminate in a color corresponding to the received operational status.10. The umbrella of claim 8, wherein the first light element mayilluminate in more than one intensity, the more than one intensitycorresponding to an operational status of the first electricalcomponent, and wherein the computer-readable instructions are furtherexecutable by the one or more processors to: generate the first lightelement commands, instructions, messages or signals, based, at least inpart on the operational status of the first electrical component,wherein the first light element commands, instructions, messages orsignals cause the first light element to illuminate in an intensitycorresponding to the received operational status.
 11. The umbrella ofclaim 4, wherein the status message received from the first motorassembly indicates an operational status of the first motor assembly,the operational status being either turned off, activated ormalfunctioning.
 12. The umbrella of claim 11, wherein the first lightelement may illuminate in more than one color, the more than one colorscorresponding to an operational status of the first motor assembly, andwherein the computer-readable instructions are further executable by theone or more processors to: generate the first light element commands,instructions, messages or signals, based, at least in part on theoperational status of the first motor assembly, wherein the first lightelement commands, instructions, messages or signals cause the firstlight element to illuminate in a color corresponding to the receivedoperational status of the first motor assembly.
 13. The umbrella ofclaim 11, wherein the first light element may illuminate in more thanone intensity, the more than one intensity corresponding to anoperational status of the first motor assembly, and wherein thecomputer-readable instructions are further executable by the one or moreprocessors to: generate the first light element commands, instructions,messages or signals, based, at least in part on the operational statusof the first motor assembly, wherein the first light element commands,instructions, messages or signals cause the first light element toilluminate in an intensity corresponding to the received operationalstatus of the first motor assembly.